A TD has suggested that Dublin Airport be held financially responsible if management fails to ensure that there is a drone-free zone around the airport.
Following three days of disruption at the facility over the weekend, Fine GColm Brophy stated that it is Dublin Airport’s responsibility to prevent drone operations in the area, Breaking news reported.
Drone flight is prohibited within 5 kilometers of an airport.
“What work has Dublin Airport done on a counter-drone system? Everyone was made well aware of the potential repercussions of this issue when thousands of passengers were grounded at Gatwick in Christmas 2018.
“What has happened since at Dublin Airport to prevent a similar scenario here? Not much, it would appear.
“Obviously, Covid brought its own issues to the airport but drones operating illegally there should be a serious concern for management there. What are they doing to prevent this?”
“Airlines had to be diverted or passengers were left grounded and delayed in recent days due to this. The airport should bear the cost of this – not the airline,” Mr. Brophy said.
“The current legislation – the Small Unmanned Aircraft (Drones) and Rockets Order, 2015 – contains a number of limitations for the operation of drones. These include never operating a drone if it will be a hazard to another aircraft in flight or 5km from an airport. Is this adequate?
“Minister Jack Chambers needs to consider this too. Our airports, and especially Dublin Airport, must be ready to deal with drones,” Mr. Brophy added.