Drones found at close proximity of Jackson's International Airport poses risk to flying aircraft

THE PNG Accident Investigation Commission is concerned about the “illegal” operation of drones near the Jackson Airport in Port Moresby, posing a risk to aircraft.

Chief Commissioner Hubert Namani in a statement said at least one drone was reported to have been operating from an estate at Eight-Mile near the airport.

“I have received a report of at least one UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle)/drone recently being operated from a house or houses within the Kennedy Estate, Eight-Mile,” he said.
“The UAV was observed operating above a light-post height, to an undetermined height. Kennedy Estates is less than 2km from the Jackson Airport boundary and under the runway 14L flight path.”

“This presents a significant safety risk and danger to aircraft and the travelling public, as well as to the residents of Kennedy Estates.
“I have requested CASA (Civil Aviation Safety Authority) and NAC (National Airport Corporation) to seek the assistance of the constabulary to investigate this significant safety risk.

“Unauthorised drone operations near any airport is a safety risk and danger to the travelling public.”
Namani called on the media “as a matter of civic duty to assist the PNG aviation and civil regulatory and enforcement authorities to stop these illegal and unsafe practices”.
“PNG UAV retailers are urged to ensure they work with CASA PNG to supply education and warning documentation with each UAV sold,” he said.

“The most recent dangerous situation at Gatwick Airport (in London) is a salient reminder that urgent steps must be taken by PNG regulatory and enforcement agencies before we are faced with a major tragedy.”
More than 1000 flights to Gatwick airport, the second biggest airport in London, were cancelled recently because of the presence of drones near it.

A man and his wife were arrested last Friday in the wake of the mayhem at Gatwick airport.
According to a Daily Mail report, security chiefs at Gatwick knew of the threat posed by drones but only put up signs warning users to stay away from the airport.
The use of high-tech devices to stop illegal drone flights was discussed in recent months, but set aside as something for the future.

Instead, the airport decided to “raise awareness” of the law with local residents and put up signs on the perimeter fence warning of an official No Drone Zone.

Source: The National newspaper.