Dundee Airport airs kite safety concerns
Watersports enthusiasts could have the wind taken out of their sails after the operators of Dundee Airport asked kitesurfers to stay away from the area.
The Tay has become a popular sport for kitesurfing, but enthusiasts are being asked to stay away from the area near the airport.
- By Jonathan Watson
- Published in the Courier : 12.01.12
- Published online : 12.01.12 @ 12.55pm
Highlands & Islands Airports Ltd have appealed to kitesurfers to avoid the stretch of the River Tay near the airport, citing safety concerns.
It follows an incident last month that saw one enthusiast reprimanded by police after straying too close to the airport.
Youngsters at nearby Magdalen Green have also been asked to ground their kites in a bid not to cause any distraction to pilots.
Local councillor Fraser MacPherson believes it is vital nothing compromises the safety of those using the airport.
Asked if passenger safety should take priority, he said: ''Absolutely. This has come up in the past and some signs were put in place at Magdalen Green.
''One of those has disappeared — I think due to the gales — but I have asked for this to be replaced.
''When the signs were put up the Riverside Nature Park had not opened yet, and it might be beneficial to have additional signs put up there.
''In all fairness to the public these incidents have happened in complete innocence. But it would be helpful to let people know that if they want to fly their kites there are plenty of parks where they can do so — but just not to the east or west of the airport.''
The Civil Aviation Authority has strict rules on the flying of kites close to aerodromes, stating that one cannot be flown more than 30 metres above ground level during operating hours.
Airport operators are advised to inform the police immediately if they believe that kites are being flown in contravention of these rules.
03.22pm - 12.01.2012 Daz Hales - Koblenz, Germany Report This
The flying of kites, balloons and other devices like the Chinese lanterns are inherently dangerous to aircraft. The CAA has laws restricting their use but the general public are unaware of these rules. Common sense should prevail, but the holiday spirit often clouds this.
08.25pm - 12.01.2012 Wynn - Grosse Ile, Canada Report This
Curious.... What are the chances of a kite flying up and into the path of aircraft? (Kites not attached to a person)
10.07am - 13.01.2012 Maverick - Dundee, Angus Report This
if its below `Delta Space` 500ft,and most kite lines would be,there is no risk to aircraft,unless the aircraft is breaking the rules.
01.19pm - 13.01.2012 Daz Hales - Koblenz, Germany Report This
I believe most take-offs and landings are often completed below 500 ft. Thats why the protection is there.
01.56pm - 13.01.2012 W. Brown - Montrose, Scotland Report This
Maverick: You do realise that aircraft generally have to descent below 500 ft to actually land? That is why the situation described only applies to areas in the immediate vincinity of the airport.
12.05pm - 16.01.2012 Top Gun - Dundee, Scotland Report This
Daz,why do you thing runways are the length they are?so the aircraft is at 500ft till its on the runway area.
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