KATHMANDU: Nepal’s Civil Aviation Authority has urged the public not to fly kites, balloons or drones in and around Tribhuvan International Airport during the Dashain festival, warning that such activities could pose a serious risk to flight safety.
The airport’s office issued a public notice on Monday, saying kites, balloons, drones and similar objects flown near the airport or along aircraft flight paths could interfere with planes during takeoff and landing.
The office said kite-flying typically increases around Dashain, raising the risk of kites, strings, cords, balloons or drones entering areas used by aircraft.
“Such objects entering aircraft takeoff and landing areas can obstruct safe flight operations and adversely affect aviation safety,” the notice said.
The airport office also reminded the public that Nepal’s civil aviation laws prohibit such activities in areas surrounding airports.
Authorities said they have been working with local governments, security agencies and other relevant bodies to raise public awareness about the risks.
The office specifically urged parents and community members to ensure that children do not fly kites, balloons or drones in and around the airport.
Dashain, Nepal’s biggest annual festival, begins next week and typically brings a surge in travel across the country. - Katmandu Post/ANN
