A major improvement is underway for the RCMP’s eyes in the sky.
The cameras on the helicopters will have new livestreaming capabilities, with Air Services now able to transmit live aerial footage directly to the Real Time Intelligence Centre where officers and staff from multiple law enforcement agencies provide 24/7 intelligence to frontline investigators.
In a news release unveiling the changes, the RCMP says the new technology allows personnel to monitor unfolding police operations in real time, providing officers on the ground with immediate and accurate information to support operational decisions and coordinate responses.
The increased capability allows police to respond more effectively to evolving situations, share information and strengthen public and officer safety.
“Timely information during unfolding and fast-moving incidents is vital to effective policing,” says Inspector Kevin Kilar, Officer in Charge of BC RCMP Air Services.
“Having this ability to livestream footage from the sky, during and as a police incident is happening, gives us tremendous access to real-time observations from the pilot and Tactical Flight Officer (TFO) perspectives. We can share those directly with officers on the ground for a clearer picture of the situation, cutting down response times when it matters most.”
On October 13, 2026, while on their daily aerial patrol in the Lower Mainland, the RCMP says a pilot and TFO spotted a black BMW 300-series speeding and weaving along Highway 1 in Burnaby, reaching speeds of over 160 km/hr.
The TFO immediately alerted BC Highway Patrol, providing important details about the unfolding situation. A BC Highway Patrol officer was able to stage at the exact location where the vehicle took the exit to make a safe traffic stop and issue $788.00 in violation tickets.
So far, the two helicopters based in the Lower Mainland are equipped with the new camera feature, while the rest of the fleet across BC is scheduled to be outfitted by 2028.
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