Flights at Edinburgh Airport were delayed on Wednesday morning after a drone was spotted within the exclusion zone, prompting an investigation by authorities.
The incident occurred early on February 19, with arrival flights temporarily held while officials assessed the situation. According to sources, the drone did not enter the airfield or fly above the runway. Police Scotland was notified, following standard procedures when an exclusion zone is breached.
A spokesperson for Edinburgh Airport stated:
“Arriving flights were held for a short time due to the presence of a drone within the exclusion zone, which police investigated. It is imperative that drone operators are aware of their responsibilities and are aware of the flight restriction zones and potential penalties. It is their responsibility to know this. The safety of passengers and staff is always paramount.”
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Under current regulations, anyone flying a drone within the airport’s restricted zone without prior permission could face up to five years in prison and an unlimited fine. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has reiterated the importance of these restrictions, which apply to a 5km radius around airports, airfields and spaceports.
A spokesperson for Police Scotland confirmed: “Around 7.50am on Wednesday, 19 February 2025, police received a report of a drone within restricted air space over Edinburgh Airport. Enquiries were carried out and a 39-year-old man will be subject of a report to the Procurator Fiscal in connection with the incident. The drone has been seized.”
The disruption was brief, and flights resumed shortly after authorities concluded their investigation. The incident serves as a reminder of the strict regulations surrounding drone use near airports and the potential consequences for violations.
Crédito da imagem da publicação: Edinburgh Airport
