SLAF urges public to refrain from unauthorized drone use during disaster relief operations

Colombo, Dec. 1 (Daily Mirror) - The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) has requested the cooperation of the public when operating drones in areas affected by the ongoing disaster situation. Unregulated drone operations during Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) missions pose significant risks to air operations conducted by the SLAF and other response agencies.

The presence of drones whether authorized or unauthorized in active airspace can interfere with flight paths, disrupt critical rescue and relief missions, and may lead to aircraft accidents. Such incidents endanger the lives of aircrew members, jeopardize valuable air assets, and put people on the ground at serious risk.

To ensure the safety and efficiency of HADR operations, the SLAF urges the public to:

Refrain from operating drones in areas where SLAF or other response aircraft are engaged in relief missions.

Inform the SLAF of all drone take-off and landing times whether authorized or unauthorized before conducting any drone operations by contacting:

General Lines: 0112343970 / 0112343971

Hotline: 115

The SLAF highlighted that public cooperation is essential to safeguard lives and ensure uninterrupted air operations, and expressed appreciation for the understanding and support of the community during this critical period.