Health campaign reminds owners that drones pose serious risks

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services, Steven Miles, said while drones may be great for entertainment, they can pose a serious risk when flown within the fly zone of hospitals.

“Christmas is a really busy time for our hospitals – we’ll often have up to 500 patients arrive by helicopter over the holiday season and ensuring the pilots can get them to the critical care they need swiftly and safety is vital,” Mr Miles said.

 “This campaign aims to educate drone pilots about their responsibilities and remind them not to fly within a five kilometre radius of any hospital.”

Queensland Government Air’s, Trevor Wilson, said there have been several occasions, over the past few years, where aeromedical crews have seen drones flying whilst responding to a mission.

“Some of our aircrafts have had to take extra measures to avoid drones which have been hovering near helicopter landing pads,” Mr Wilson said. 

“When it’s life or death for some of our patients, there’s no time to wait for a drone to clear the area.

“Recreational use of drones has become increasingly popular and we recognise this, but we are appealing for the public to help us do our jobs safely.”

Civil Aviation Safety Authority’s Peter Gibson it’s important to know where you can and can’t fly drones safely around Queensland.

“Follow the rules and have fun, but remember it is the responsibility of everyone flying a drone to stick to the safety rules at all times,” Mr Gibson said.

“The rules are simple but vitally important to keep people, aircraft and property safe from drones.  The rules are enforced and fines can be up to $10,000.”

CASA says drones must be operated in accordance with the safety regulations, in particular:

For more information visit the Civil Aviation Safety Authority’s website or download the Can I Fly There app.