Y-12 aircraft hit by kite string; SLAF warns against flying kites near airports

Colombo, July 15 (Daily Mirror) - The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) has urged the public to avoid flying kites near airports and runways after a Y-12 aircraft was forced to make an emergency return landing following a kite string-related safety incident during a training mission from Ratmalana Airport.

The incident occurred on today (July 15), when the aircraft, which had departed Ratmalana Airport on a training flight, encountered a hazardous situation caused by kite strings. The aircraft safely returned to the airport, where a technical inspection was carried out.

The inspection revealed that large quantities of kite strings had become entangled in the aircraft’s left wheel, left engine area, and other critical components, according to the Sri Lanka Air Force.

The SLAF warned that flying kites near operational airfields poses a serious threat to aviation safety, as kite strings and other airborne debris can interfere with aircraft engines and essential control systems. Such incidents could potentially lead to aircraft damage, loss of control, and endanger the lives of passengers and crew.

The Air Force said an increase in kite-flying activities has been observed near several airports and identified a number of locations as high-risk areas. These include Katunayake, Ratmalana, Hingurakgoda, China Bay, Anuradhapura, Palaly, Katukurunda, Koggala, Vavuniya, Wirawila, and Mattala.

The SLAF has requested the public, particularly residents living near airports and flight paths, to refrain from flying kites in restricted areas and to cooperate in maintaining aviation safety.