An air traffic control official has urged the public to stop flying kites, drones, sky lanterns and aerial fireworks, saying they endanger aircraft and passengers.
Senior Manager for Air Traffic Control (ATC) Jude Peiris said kites had recently been flown at altitudes of up to 1,500 feet. Pilots have also mistaken large kites fitted with LED lights for drones at night, he said.
Peiris said sky lanterns with burning wicks and laser beams aimed at aircraft are also dangerous. He said some farmers use laser flashlights to scare off wild animals, and that pointing them at aircraft, intentionally or not, is a risk. Aerial fireworks and sky lanterns are a particular concern in the Katunayake area, he said.
When pilots or the public report such objects, police, security forces and airport security staff must be sent to find and remove them. “These operations consume significant manpower, funds and time,” Peiris said.
Launching such objects within five kilometres of an airport perimeter is prohibited, he said. Elsewhere, kites and balloons may be flown up to 300 feet, subject to regulations and permission. Legal action can be taken against those responsible, depending on investigation findings.
Peiris appealed to religious leaders and school principals near airports to teach children and residents about the risks.
