Drone users accidentally entering flight paths at Merimbula: CASA

By Alexandra Beech

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority says it’s concerned drones are crossing flight paths on the New South Wales far south coast.

The authority says it’s received feedback from the operator at Merimbula Airport that drones are being operated too close to the site.

CASA spokesman Peter Gibson says it appears the drones are entering flight paths by mistake.

“We certainly suspect that it is recreational drone users just having a bit of fun, flying around the beautiful scenic coastline at Merimbula and not realising that they’re in close proximity to where aircraft are flying in low, coming down to land or take off from Merimbula,” he said.

Mr Gibson said it was very important for drone users to keep clear of the airport or low-flying aircraft.

“There is a risk of a collision between a drone and an aircraft which could obviously damage the aircraft or could distract the pilots while they’re flying,” he said.

“That’s a genuine safety risk and we’ve just got to avoid that risk at all costs.

“People should also remember that it is a breach of the safety regulations to put a flight at risk.”

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-07-22/merimbula-drones/6638214