RICHMOND, B.C. – In preparation for their mission to support RCMP-led Olympic security operations, CF-18 Hornet fighter jets will be flying over the lower mainland and Vancouver Island throughout the week.

The flying is being conducted to familiarize pilots with the areas they’ll be working in once the airspace restrictions go into effect. The public may see and hear the fighters as they conduct their flying throughout the week.

NORAD is a bi-national organization charged with the missions of maritime warning, aerospace warning and aerospace control for Canada and the United States. As a partner of the Vancouver 2010 Integrated Security Unit (V2010 ISU), NORAD is providing aerospace security. The V2010 ISU is responsible for the overall safety and security of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The public is reminded that 2010 Olympic airspace restriction procedures are available on the V2010 ISU website at www.v2010isu.com. We encourage all aviators and travelers to visit the site and get the latest information.

NOTE TO EDITORS: For further information, please contact:

Lieutenant (Navy) David Lavallee
(204) 471-5222