What is the law on drones? Who can buy them and how flying too close to an airport can land you five years in prison
The major flight disruption at London Gatwick today comes just five months after new laws banned drones from flying too close to airports.
Legislation implemented in July means people in Britain are now banned from flying the devices above 400ft and within 1km (0.6 miles) of airport boundaries.
Drone users who flout the height and airport boundary restrictions could face an unlimited fine, up to five years in prison, or both.
Laws introduced to the Commons in May mean people flying drones which weigh 250g or more will have to register with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
Drone pilots will be required to take an online safety test under the new legislation, with the requirements set to come into force in November next year.
Research has found a drone weighing 400g (14oz) could smash a helicopter windscreen, and one at 2kg (4lbs) could critically damage an airliner's windscreen.
In July, the DfT said it was considering introducing an age restriction, banning children from owning drones weighing at least 250g.
It also said it was considering giving police the power to issue on-the-spot fines of up to £300 for misuse and the ability to seize drones being used irresponsibly.
There have already been 117 near misses between manned aircraft and drones up until November this year, compared to 93 for the whole of 2017.
Comments
Post a Comment