The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) is alerting drone operators about temporary airspace restrictions on the Gold Coast during the Pacific Airshow from 15 to 18 August.
Spectators, visitors and residents within a 9-kilometre radius of Surfer's Paradise are advised not to fly their drones during the event to maintain safety. Flying a drone while restrictions are in place is illegal and could lead to hefty fines or severe consequences.
CASA's remotely piloted aircraft systems team leader, Heath Macdonald, said it is the drone owner's responsibility to check that the location in which they're operating is not in restricted airspace and safe to fly.
'While it is generally well known that drones can't be flown at major events there are other restrictions operators must know about,' he said.
'Flying your drone in restricted airspace poses a significant safety hazard to the aircraft crew executing staged manoeuvres and spectators on the ground.'
CASA inspectors and Queensland Police will be monitoring Gold Coast airspace and urge all drone operators to follow the drone safety rules. The restrictions also apply to crewed aircraft operating in the area.
Last month, a drone operator disrupted a flying display over Mindil Beach in Darwin, forcing organisers and Royal Australian Air Force air traffic controllers to stop the event until the drone was landed. Northern Territory Police responded and the incident has been referred to CASA for enforcement.
Fines of up to $1,650 per offence and other penalties apply to operators who break the drone safety rules or if their drone becomes a hazard to other aircraft.
'This weekend the message is clear; drone operators must not fly in the restricted area around Surfers Paradise during the Pacific Airshow to avoid hefty fines and ensure safety,' Mr Macdonald said.
Drone operators are encouraged to use a CASA-verified drone safety app, available for free from the Know Your Drone website. The mobile apps and web applications give location-based information with easy-to-use maps to show where you can and can't fly your drone.
CASA urges all drone flyers to learn the drone safety rules before taking-off, by visiting knowyourdrone.gov.au
