New drone users are being urged to fly safely this Christmas.
Drones are on the wishlist for many people this year but new users are being warned that they face strict rules. The Irish Aviation Authority has today launched its Christmas 'Drone Safely' campaign to make people aware of the dangers of flying drones.
Anyone who has a drone that is over 250g, or has a camera, must register themselves online as drone operator. They must also have their operator's registration ID number on the drone and complete an online training course.
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An IAA spokesman said “We are concerned that there are many drone owners who are not registered, who may be flying unsafely and putting people and other aircraft at risk. Reckless use of a drone or inappropriate use of its camera may result in prosecution."
For toy drones there are rules like flying these drones indoors and to only allow children over 14 to use the drones. Jim Gavin, Director People & Operations from the Irish Aviation Authority, Aviation Regulator, said that drone use has increased "significantly" in recent years here in Ireland.
He said: "Piloting a drone is fun but it comes with responsibilities, and no matter what their use or purpose, drones can raise challenges from both safety and privacy perspectives.
"Flying a drone in public requires training, as they can have serious consequences if they are flown inappropriately, or collide with a person, an animal or an aircraft. So, if you do get a drone this Christmas, find out if you need to register as an operator with the Aviation Regulator and get trained.”
For more information and advice on drone safety visit iaa.ie
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