Drone operators warned over illegal flights

The National Airports Corporation [NAC] has issued a warning to drone operators in Buka following an increase in unauthorised flights within the airport's controlled airspace.

NAC airport Manager Fabian Hakalits issued the warning after a recent incident over the weekend in which an individual had flown an uncertified drone while an aircraft was parked on the tarmac at Buka Airport.

Hakalits said drones must not be operated during aircraft take-offs or landings and should not be flown anywhere near an aerodrome, adding they pose serious risks to aviation safety.

He said operating drones within an aircraft flight path is a breach of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority Part 102 Rules, which regulates the operation of unmanned aircraft.

Hakalits said under Part 102, any individual or organisation intending to operate a drone must first apply to the Civil Aviation Safety Authority for appropriate approval or licence before conducting any flight operations.

He's urged all drone operators to comply with the regulations to ensure the safety of aircrafts, passengers and airport operations.