Police urge safe drone use after surge in incursions near airport
'We're committed to integrating drones safely into our skies,' said PC Dave Jackson, based at Hawarden Airport. 'But pilots need to understand that flying near an airport without permission is not only dangerous - it's illegal.'
In recent weeks, multiple drone incursions have been reported within Hawarden's Flight Restriction Zone (FRZ) - a controlled airspace that extends 2.5 nautical miles from the runway and covers aircraft approach and departure paths.
These incidents are now being jointly investigated by the North Wales and Cheshire police forces. Unauthorised drone flights within the FRZ have caused the closure of the runway, and flights, including the Airbus Beluga XL, to be diverted to other runways.
'This isn't about stopping drone use,' PC Jackson continued. 'It's about protecting aircraft, passengers, and our local communities. We've had a worrying increase in unauthorised flights, and we're acting to make sure drone pilots know what's at stake."
PC Jackson said there were several incidents over the bank holiday weekend.
(Image: The Flight Restriction Zone around Hawarden Airport) In the UK, police have specific powers under the Air Traffic Management and Unmanned Aircraft Act 2021 to enforce drone laws. These powers include making drones land, stopping and searching people or vehicles for drones, and confiscating and keeping drones found during searches.
Penalties for violating drone regulations can range from warnings to fines and even imprisonment. Know the rules
Flying a drone within Hawarden's Flight Restriction Zone requires explicit permission from the airport. Without it, pilots risk prosecution under UK aviation laws.
Officials are asking all drone operators—whether hobbyists or commercial users—to plan ahead and use the tools available to them, including: www.airspacemanager.com – to request authorisation to fly in the Flight Restricted Zone at Hawarden.
– to request authorisation to fly in the Flight Restricted Zone at Hawarden. Drone Assist – a free app that maps airspace restrictions and helps pilots plan legal routes.
– a free app that maps airspace restrictions and helps pilots plan legal routes. The Drone Code – the official guide to safe UK drone flying. A QR code linking directly to The Drone Code will be made available on police communications and local signage.
– the official guide to safe UK drone flying. A QR code linking directly to The Drone Code will be made available on police communications and local signage. NATS AIP (Aeronautical Information Publication) – the official source of UK airspace data and aviation procedures, available at www.nats-uk.ead-it.com. Drone users can check NOTAMs, airspace classifications, and flight restriction zones in detail.
'The responsibility lies with the pilot,' said PC Jackson. 'Before every flight, you must check where you're flying and whether permission is needed. It only takes a few minutes—and it could save lives.
'Fly smart, fly legal and please check before you fly.'
PC Dave Jackson looking out onto the runway at Hawarden Airport. (Image: Newsquest) With airspace becoming increasingly shared between crewed and uncrewed aircraft, the need for responsible flying has never been greater. Authorities are asking drone users to respect restrictions, seek permission, and help keep the skies safe.
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Authorities are also urging parents and guardians who buy drones for children to ensure they understand the rules and responsibilities that come with flying them.
'We often see cases where a young person has flown a drone in restricted airspace without realising the risk,' said PC Jackson. 'But ultimately, the legal responsibility lies with the adult. If you're buying a drone for your child, it's vital you help them understand where they can and cannot fly.'
Parents are encouraged to install apps like Drone Assist, read through The Drone Code together, and check the drone's capabilities—especially if it can fly long distances or at high altitudes.
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