7 FEBRUARY 2011

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Article from BTNews 7 FEBRUARY 2011

Sky Lanterns are a danger to aircraft

The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has issued guidance on the release of sky lanterns in UK airspace.  The growing popularity of releasing large number at private or commercial events is creating a potential hazard for aviation, in much the same way as mass balloon releases and firework displays says the CAA.  It is calling on all organisers of sky lantern releases to register their event in advance so that it can warn aerodrome authorities, and they in turn airspace users of the possibility of encountering these aerial beacons.

Sky lanterns, sometimes known as Chinese lanterns, vary in size and performance and when released can travel considerable distances at unpredictable heights on prevailing winds from the point of release.  They can be ingested into the engines of airborne aircraft, or, as they fall to the ground, they have the potential to become debris on runways and also on roads and motorways.

Guidance on sky lanterns is contained in the updated version of Civil Aviation Publication 736. www.caa.co.uk/docs/33/CAP736.pdf

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