PSNI issues drone safety warning following Mourne Mountains helicopter near miss

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has issued a stark warning to drone users following a serious incident in the Mourne Mountains, where a rescue helicopter was put in danger due to a drone being flown in close proximity.

The incident occurred during a recent emergency rescue operation involving the Maritime and Coastguard Agency. The helicopter had successfully airlifted an injured person from a mountainous area and had just completed the transfer of the casualty to an ambulance when a drone was spotted dangerously close to the aircraft.

Police say the drone posed a significant threat to the safety of those on board the helicopter. Officers responded to the scene but found that the drone operator had already left the area.

Detective Superintendent Sean Fitzpatrick, from the PSNI’s Air Support Unit, said the incident highlights the urgent need for drone users to understand and adhere to existing legislation.

“With drones becoming ever more popular I would ask all users to familiarise themselves with legislation and regulations. Comprehensive guidance is available on our website, and is in line with the Air Navigation Order and Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) regulations.”

He further emphasised the severity of the Mourne Mountains incident:

“Following a recent incident in the Mourne Mountains, when a Maritime and Coastguard Agency Rescue helicopter was put in danger from a drone, I am asking drone users to adhere to the regulations in place to fly drones safely.”

The PSNI is reminding all drone operators that flying drones irresponsibly can have catastrophic consequences, particularly around emergency operations.

“The helicopter had successfully extracted an injured casualty from the mountains and brought them to safety where they were transferred to an ambulance and, as the helicopter prepared to lift off, a drone was spotted being flown in close proximity, putting all on board in serious danger. Police officers made their way to the site where the drone had been seen but the operator had left the area.”

UK law stipulates that drones must not be flown near airports, aircraft, or emergency scenes. They must also remain a safe distance from members of the public. These laws are in place not to restrict recreational use, but to ensure safety.

“The legislation exists to ensure safety, and essentially drones should not pose any risk, either to aircrafts or people.

“Accordingly, drones must not be flown near any airport, flight path or aircraft, and must not be flown near or over the public. They must also not be flown in any manner that could hamper emergency services when they are responding to an emergency incident.”

The PSNI has urged all drone users, both recreational and commercial, to consult the guidance available on their website, which reflects both national and CAA-specific regulations.

Further information can be accessed at psni.police.uk.