Glasgow Prestwick Airport, Police Scotland and South Ayrshire Council inform the public on drone safety
Working in partnership with Police Scotland and South Ayrshire Council, Glasgow Prestwick Airport, have released a new campaign to inform the public about drone safety ahead of Christmas.
As one of the UK’s top hobbies, Drone Usage, is becoming extremely popular across the nation with them being a favourable Christmas gift. Last year, more than 5,500 drones were registered in the days between 25 and 31 December 2019.
The new campaign includes ‘No Drone Zone’ signage will be carefully placed in key areas across South Ayrshire to 
inform the public where drones are prohibited. Social media messages will be shared on platforms with safety and legal information. In addition, the drone section on the airport’s website has been refreshed with the updated regulations and new artwork.
Glasgow Prestwick Airport’s Assurance Manager, Gillian Watson, said;
“The safety of our operations at Glasgow Prestwick Airport is of top priority and we welcome the safe and legal use of drones.
“In partnership with Police Scotland and South Ayrshire Council, the Airport has identified some public locations which will have No Drone Zone signage put up over the coming weeks. Each sign has a unique reference number on the top left-hand side. If reporting any drone misuse, please ensure you pass this unique number where possible.
“We’d like to take this opportunity to thank all drone operators and the general public for their continued support.
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), who are responsible for regulating UK airspace and airports, have created the Drone Code to ensure we can all operate safely. This includes
- Don’t fly near airports or airfields – Last year, drone flight restriction zones around airports and airfields changed. There is a 5km restriction zone the airport and it is illegal to fly a drone in these restricted zones.
- Remember to stay below 400ft (120m) – aircraft may fly as low as 500ft, which is why it is important for drones to stay below 400ft
- Observe your drone at all times – Stay 150ft (approx. 50m) from people and property
- Never fly near aircraft – drones can be extremely hard for aircraft operators to see, keep everyone safe and stay away from any aircraft movements.
- Enjoy responsibly – Drone operators are required, by law, to register their drone and take a theory test. The Drone and Model Aircraft Registration and Education Scheme has been created by the CAA to support users.
Drone users are encouraged to visit the Drone Safe website and download the Drone Assist app for mobile phones.
Sergeant Mitch Oxnard of Border Policing Command, based at Prestwick Airport said,
“Before operating a drone, you must ensure you are fully aware of the appropriate legislation and have a knowledge of the restricted airspace. Operators must observe the Drone Code at all times ensuring that safety can be maintained throughout.
We would encourage anyone with concerns regarding the operation of a drone in their area to dial 999 immediately, quoting the unique reference number located on the No Drone Zone signage if present.”
Councillor Ian Cochrane, Environment Portfolio Holder for South Ayrshire Council said:
“We want people to enjoy their drones responsibly and most operators do exactly that. Those flying drones should adhere to the legislation at all times and we are asking the public to be vigilant and report any misuse. This is an extremely important message, particularly with the airport in close proximity.
For more information on drones, visit The Drone Section on our website.
