Drone, laser strike threat for aircraft

Incidents at opposite ends of the country endanger lives of pilots, passengers, crew

Otago rescue helicopter’s chief pilot has slammed as “dumb” the person who flew a drone near the chopper as it came in to land at Dunedin Hospital on Wednesday night.

Graham Gale said it was incredibly dangerous considering the speeds they travel in the helicopter.

“We were bringing a patient into hospital and about 7 metres away there was a drone which had a red light on it. It was in extremely close proximity to the helipad itself.

“We are travelling at about 2 miles (3.2km) a minute and we are covering a lot of ground quickly.”

Drones are required to stay more than 4km away from aerodromes, including helipads at most hospitals.

“The drones are very small and we have no way of seeing it. Absolutely dumb on dumb from the idiot who was flying it.”

Police were notified of the drone about 6.40pm and the Civil Aviation Authority is hoping to investigate if more information about the drone operator can be uncovered.

A Kingsgate Hotel guest said they saw the drone being flown nearby before it landed on a balcony of one of the rooms.

Earlier this week, a person pointed a laser at a commercial aircraft at Auckland Airport and last week a domestic Air NZ plane was targeted as it came in to land at Whanga¯rei about 8.20pm.

The drones are very small and we have no way of seeing it. Graham Gale

Air NZ chief operational integrity and safety officer Captain David Morgan said laser strikes were potentially dangerous and the airline supported authorities in taking action when they occur.

“The pilot followed the standard process and alerted Air Traffic Control and the aircraft landed without incident in Whanga¯rei.”

High-powered laser attacks can distract or potentially blind crew.

Offenders face up to three years in prison or a fine up to $2000 if convicted of possession of a highpowered laser or up to 14 years in jail if convicted under the Crimes Act for endangering transport.