In December 2018, London Gatwick, the second largest airport in the United Kingdom, was shut down for over a day, affecting more than 760 flights and the travel plans of over 110,000 passengers.
The reason? Drones. Specifically, unlawful operators flying drones too close to the runways.
Aviation rules in the United Kingdom state that a drone may not be flown within one kilometer (0.6 miles) of an airport without first having express permission. The unlawful operators could face up to five years in prison.
A similar rule exists in the United States. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a drone may not be flown within five miles of an airport without first being cleared to do so by that airport’s air traffic control.
Staying clear of airports and being aware of the FAA’s airspace restrictions are examples of the many safety measures that drone operators must adhere to when flying.
The number of businesses finding innovative ways to incorporate drones continues to grow. If your business uses or is considering using a drone for any purpose, as safe and harmless as it may seem, it’s essential to first visit www.faa.gov and learn about registration requirements, restrictions and other important safety measures. And don’t forget that drones require special insurance coverage, in many cases.
