The organisers of the Irish Hot Air Ballooning Championships that are currently taking place in Boyle have issued a warning after a drone hit a Balloon on Monday evening.
According to the organisers: “On Monday evening, we had unauthorised drone activity over the launch field; with one drone actually hitting a balloon as it was flying over the public, just after takeoff”.
“To be clear, even the rotors on a small drone when in contact with the highly pressurised fabric of the balloon envelope could cause a very serious accident with damage to not only the balloon/ pilot but also those on the ground below”.
“Per the event information, both the IBA and Lough Key do NOT PERMIT unauthorised drone activity in the Park during this event”.
“In the event that any drones are seen in the Park/ around the balloons during future launches, all activity will be stopped immediately, regardless of any favourable flyable conditions, by Lough Key, on the grounds of safety – with a zero tolerance approach being taken to those flying them”.
“Please do not let the actions of a few ruin such a fabulous event for the masses. If drones are spotted, please make a member of Lough Key staff or a balloonist aware immediately so I can be advised and take the necessary action”.
(Image for illustration purposes only)
