A military training exercise requiring troops to travel from Edmonton to Alaska will involve helicopter activity over northeastern B.C., but the air force said residents do not need to worry.
The multinational exercise will involve the Royal Canadian Air Force flying over the region next week from Jan. 26 to 28.
Canadian troops will be joined by units from the U.S. Army “and other international partners, including Norway, Italy, and Mongolia,” according to a public service announcement from the RCAF.
“The transit routes and timings will vary based on weather and operational requirements, so we cannot provide precise schedules in advance. However, aircrew will strive to conduct the transit during daylight hours, between sunrise and sunset,” said Sub-Lt. Meagan Pye, a public affairs officer with the Canadian Armed Forces.
Residents in areas along the flight paths may hear “unfamiliar” noises during that time. Even at their closest, the helicopters will not fly within 500 feet of the highest obstacle on their route, according to the announcement.
After the trip to Alaska, troops will remain in the region for one month for an exercise aimed at improving Arctic training.
“This is a routine and scheduled movement of Royal Canadian Air Force aircraft participating in a multinational training exercise that enhances Arctic readiness and supports continental defence,” Pye said.
“The Arctic region is of increasing importance, and 1 Wing remains focused on training to ensure we are fully prepared to operate in extreme northern climates,” she said.
“The exercise at the Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Centre in Alaska provides an exceptional opportunity for 1 Wing to practise advanced tactics, techniques and procedures in a realistic sub-Arctic environment. This training ensures our personnel remain capable and ready to respond to global and regional requirements at a moment’s notice.”
“Royal Canadian Air Force flights are meticulously planned and closely monitored to ensure public safety, with operations contingent on weather and flying conditions,” the military branch added in a public service announcement.
Six helicopters are expected to fly over northeastern B.C. in the early days of next week as the training begins.
The CH-146 Griffon is a tactical transport helicopter used for search and rescue, surveillance and counter-drug operations.
