Kochi, June 17 (UNI) The use of laser beams and various aerial devices, including drones, has been banned within a five-kilometre radius – designated as a red zone – of Cochin International Airport.

The order was issued based on reports from the airport director and the Ernakulam Rural District Police Chief highlighting that the unauthorised use of such devices poses a serious threat to flight safety.

Microlight aircraft, aeromodellers, paragliders, unmanned aerial systems (UAS), drones, powered hand gliders, laser devices, and hot air balloons have been prohibited in the designated red zone area, as stated in an order issued by Ernakulam District Collector N.S.K. Umesh.

Operating these devices near the runway and flight paths was found to endanger aircraft during takeoff, landing, and in-flight operations.

This directive has been enforced under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS)-2023 to ensure the safe operation of aircraft. No individual is permitted to operate any of the banned devices within the red zone.

Any such activity, if noticed, must be reported immediately to the nearest police station, the order said.

UNI DS ARN