Background on the Issue
Brussels Airport, located in Brussels, Belgium, experienced its second drone-related disruption of the week on Thursday evening. This incident comes after similar events earlier in the week that forced Belgium to halt all air traffic due to drone sightings near Brussels-Zaventem, the country’s primary airport, and Liège.
Thursday’s Disruption
According to a spokesperson for air traffic control, the Thursday night disruption occurred between 21:23 and 21:53 GMT (09:23-09:53 PM Central European Time) when a drone was spotted near the international airport of Brussels-Zaventem. Operations resumed normally after the half-hour interruption, as confirmed by a spokesperson for Skeyes, Belgium’s air traffic control organization.
Impact on Other European Airports
In addition to the Brussels disruption, drone sightings also affected air traffic in Sweden on Thursday. Around 17:00 GMT (01:00 PM Central European Time), a drone was reported near Gothenburg Airport, leading to cancellations and deviations of several flights.
Who is Affected?
These drone sightings and subsequent air traffic disruptions impact thousands of passengers, airlines, and cargo operations. The financial consequences include delays, cancellations, additional security measures, and potential fines for airports if they fail to maintain safe operations.
Why are Drones a Problem?
Drones pose a significant threat to aviation safety due to their small size and unpredictable flight paths. They can collide with aircraft, causing catastrophic damage, or disrupt air traffic control communications and radar systems. As drone technology becomes more accessible, incidents like these are becoming increasingly common.
Who is Responsible for Drone Regulation?
Governments worldwide are working on establishing regulations to address the growing drone issue. In Europe, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is responsible for creating and enforcing drone regulations. However, the implementation of these rules varies among member states.
What are the Current Regulations in Belgium?
In Belgium, drone operators must adhere to specific rules set by Skeyes and the Federal Public Service Economy. These regulations include maintaining a minimum distance from airports, flying during daylight hours, and registering drones weighing more than 250 grams. Violations can result in fines and even imprisonment.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the current situation at Brussels Airport? The air traffic was briefly disrupted on Thursday evening due to a drone sighting near the airport. Operations resumed normally after the interruption.
- How has this issue affected other European airports? On the same day, drone sightings also caused disruptions at Gothenburg Airport in Sweden, leading to flight cancellations and deviations.
- Why are drones a concern for aviation safety? Drones can collide with aircraft or interfere with air traffic control systems, posing a significant safety risk.
- Who is responsible for regulating drone usage? In Europe, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is responsible for creating and enforcing drone regulations. Individual countries, like Belgium, also have their own rules.
- What are the current drone regulations in Belgium? Belgian drone operators must follow rules set by Skeyes and the Federal Public Service Economy. These include maintaining a safe distance from airports, flying during daylight hours, and registering drones over 250 grams.
