CAD urges public not to interfere with aircraft
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     The Civil Aviation Department (CAD) today (September 13) reminded the public not to shine laser beams, operate drones or fly sky lanterns that may interfere with flying aircraft, in order to avoid jeopardising aviation safety and contravening the law.

     A spokesman for the CAD said it was noted that there were online posts about shining laser beams, operating drones or flying sky lanterns at different places across the territory. Such acts may pose risks to aviation safety.

     "As an international and regional aviation hub, there are frequent take-offs and landings at Hong Kong International Airport, and a large number of overflights through the Hong Kong Flight Information Region every day. Interference with aircraft may cause aircraft incidents and put passengers as well as the public at serious risk," he said.

     According to the Air Navigation (Hong Kong) Order 1995 (Cap. 448C), exhibiting light (including a laser beam), or a person who recklessly or negligently operates a drone or flies a sky lantern that endangers aircraft is an offence. Upon conviction, the offender is liable to a fine and imprisonment for two years.

     "The Government will closely monitor the situation and take appropriate measures and actions to ensure air traffic safety," the spokesman stressed.

Ends/Friday, September 13, 2019
Issued at HKT 16:25

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