Safety warning as drones fly off shelves for Christmas

Aviation authority reminds new gadget users to follow rules of the air

Children who receive drones for Christmas will have to follow existing guidelines, the Irish Aviation Authority has said. Photograph: Getty Images
Children who receive drones for Christmas will have to follow existing guidelines, the Irish Aviation Authority has said. Photograph: Getty Images

For kids who unwrap their Christmas presents to find brand new drones, safety may be the last thing on their minds.

But that is exactly what the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) wants them to think about before they fire their new gadget up and send it hurtling into the sky.

Noting that there has been a significant increase in the availability of drones in Ireland in recent years, the IAA's head of corporate affairs Donal Handley warned that users must obey the rules of the air.

"Some people may be lucky enough to receive a remotely piloted aircraft system as a gift over Christmas." he said. "They need to be aware that they must operate their RPAS in a safe and responsible manner, and in full compliance with the regulations."

Drones for recreational use follow the same rules that apply to model aircraft, Mr Handley said.

They may only be used in unpopulated areas up to 120m above ground level, they may not be flown at night or through clouds or fog, they must remain within sight and may not be flown more than 500m away from their operator.

In addition, they may not be operated within 150m of any person, vessel, vehicle or structure, within 50m of any person during take-off and landing, or within 2km of an aircraft in flight.

So, off to an empty beach or field with you. And no divebombing that annoying child with their new talking Elsa doll.

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