Since the drone is a huge technological trend, the FAA implied strict rules to keep drones away from flying aircraft. Maybe the European Union and other European governments need to do the same thing.
A few days ago, British Airways Flight 727 was hit by a drone. The flight was from Geneva, Switzerland to London Heathrow Airport. In fact, the plane approached Heathrow when the drone hit. The Metropolitan Police (Britain’s version of the FBI) confirmed a drone hit the plane while making it’s decent into London, carrying 132 passengers. They can’t prove it yet, but if it’s an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), it would be the first time a drone hit an airplane in recorded history. But there’s been some close calls. In September 2015 alone, helicopter drones barely missed airplanes either landing or taking off at London’s Gatwick and City airports and Manchester’s airport. Britain’s Civil Aviation Authority (similar to our FAA) says no drone should be within 400 feet of a plane in flight. Drones should never be out of sight from their pilots. Drones are not to be within 50 meters of another person, car, or public facility without their permission. British political and community leaders are calling for stiffer penalties and better education about drone safety.
A law is only as good as enforced and explained. Both Great Britain and America need to do a better job educating the public on drone safety. Explain why the rules are there. Make clear the potential devastation and destruction that could happen if these rules are broken. Let the people know the harsh fines and potential jail/prison time for violations. Think about the emotional guilt: If your drone hits an airplane, and that airplane goes down, the blood is going to be on your hands. Thankfully, British Airways Flight 727 landed safely and nobody was dead or injured. Next time, it might not be so lucky. What should be done to prevent tragedy before it gets started?