Police to get powers to ground drones around airports

Police are to get sweeping new powers to tackle the problem of rogue aerial drones around airports and prisons.

Officers will have the power to land, inspect and seize unmanned aircraft thanks to new legislation which was considered by MPs yesterday (Monday).

New stop-and-search powers around airports and prisons will help tackle illegal drone use, and those breaking the law could face on the spot fines

Users will still be able to obtain permission to fly drones for purposes such as photography and surveying. The Air Traffic Management and Unmanned Aircraft Bill had its second reading in Parliament yesterday.

The legislation will give the police new powers to land, inspect and seize drones if an offence has been committed and a warrant is secured.

Drone users could also face an on the spot fine for certain offences such as failing to provide evidence that they have the correct permissions and exemptions if found to be flying their device too high or too close to buildings, or failing to provide evidence of competency or registration.

Transport Minister Baroness Charlotte Vere said: “Drones have incredible potential, whether that’s by transforming how we move goods around or saving lives in search and rescue missions.

“Most people using drones want to do so responsibly, and we encourage them to familiarise themselves with the law.

“We are confident these police powers will be used proportionately to both deter careless drone use and to tackle serious, malicious criminal activity.”