If Santa has delivered you a drone this Christmas, Manchester Airport has some rules to be aware of to make sure you are flying safely and legally. Recognising the popularity of drones, the airport is reminding users of the risks they pose if flown near airports and airfields.
Rad Taylor, operations director at Manchester Airport explained:
“Drones continue to increase in popularity but what people aren’t aware of are the risks they can cause to airport operations across the UK. If they pass into our airspace (and permission is needed for this) they can cause issues which may result in delays for our airlines and passengers.
“When you fly a drone in the UK it is your responsibility to be aware of the rules that are in place to keep everyone safe and if breached you can find yourself on the wrong side of the law. It is for this reason that we have created a handy guide for anyone getting a drone from Santa this Christmas.”
The guide’s rules are:
– Make sure you can see your drone at all times and don’t fly it higher than 400 feet.
– Always keep your drone away from aircraft, helicopters, airports and airfield.
– Use your common sense and fly safely; you could be prosecuted in your don’t
Drones fitted with cameras must not be flown:
– Within 50 metres of people, vehicles, buildings or structures
– Over congested areas or large gatherings such as concerts and sports events.
Manchester Aiport’s guide can be found here.
The Civil Aviation Authority has also created a short video for anyone flying a drone this Christmas.
Hannah Evans
