Police relaxed about Newcastle drone crash

19 October 2016

A DRONE crashed into Newcastle police station after its pilot lost control earlier this year.

The incident at the South Promenade base happened last May, but details of the incident have only recently been confirmed by the PSNI.

The drone pilot was not charged with any offences after the incident which occurred after the device was seen flying over the nearby beach.

PSNI superintendent, Paul Reid, said the owner of the drone has been identified and spoken to in relation to this incident.

“In this instance there is no evidence to indicate that there was either the deliberate misuse of drone technology, or the negligent, reckless or malicious use of the technology,” he added.

The Newcastle incident has also raised concerns among those in the drone industry who say members of the public who buy drones are not exposed to clear rules on the law surrounding them. People who buy drones are being advised to visit the CAA website for information on the law surrounding their use.

Mournes councillor Brian Quinn, chairman of the district’s Policing and Community Safety Partnership, said drones should not be used in built up areas. He also believes it’s essential children are not allowed to fly them.

“The use of drones should be confined to wide open spaces. These devices are very popular, but built-up areas are not a suitable location for their use,” he continued.

“To have these devices flying about where there are pedestrians and vehicles could lead a serious accident. An out of control drone has the potential to cause serious injury and people who fly them need to exercise caution.”

Councillor Quinn said he has attended many events and festivals where drones have been used to take aerial photographs and has no issue with this.

“Drones should be restricted to large open spaces. There is always the potential for an accident if they are flown heavily populated areas and I would appeal to those who fly them to be careful,” he added.

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