This week I welcomed the introduction of new laws on drones to help ensure air passenger safety, by restricting all drones from flying above 400 feet and within 1 kilometre of airport boundaries.
While this topic may seem distant to those of us who don’t own or use a drone, the reality is that these small devices can cause disruption, inconvenience and even danger if in wrong or irresponsible hands.
This isn’t about restricting responsible use of drones – they are of important commercial use and can also be fun. However, we’ve seen their reckless use cause disruption both locally and nationwide in recent months and years.
Last July, I questioned the Security Minister in the House of Commons about an incident at Gatwick Airport, which forced the runway to close for two periods and the diversion of five flights following sightings of a drone.
The new measures follow a year-on-year increase in reporting of drone incidents with aircraft. There were 93 such occurrences last year, and the Government’s action will reduce the possibility of damage to windows and engines of planes and helicopters. The changes will come into effect on 30th July.
A draft Drones Bill is to be published later in the year, which would give police more tailored powers to intervene on the spot if a drone is being used inappropriately.
Henry Smith MP
Crawley Constituency