FAA places restrictions on drone company after Florida boy injured at holiday airshow, underwent heart surgery
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has taken action against a Texas-based drone company, Sky Elements Drones, following an incident at a holiday airshow in Orlando that resulted in a 7-year-old boy needing heart surgery. The FAA has suspended the Part 107 Waiver for Sky Elements Drones, which allows operators to conduct night flights, fly over people, and operate drones beyond their line of sight. This suspension means that Sky Elements Drones is prohibited from carrying out its drone shows until further notice.
The incident occurred during an aerial light show at Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando on December 21. Multiple drones, part of the light show, malfunctioned and crashed to the ground, with one drone striking the young boy, Alexander, and causing him to undergo open-heart surgery. Videos of the incident show drones falling from the sky and crashing into the ground during the show.
Sky Elements Drones, based in Fort Worth, is known for its synchronized drone light shows and has previously appeared on “America’s Got Talent.” The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is conducting an investigation into the incident, gathering information on the number of drones involved in the show and the circumstances that led to the malfunction.
The NTSB will analyze memory cards from the drones at their laboratory in Washington, D.C., to determine the cause of the malfunction. A preliminary report is expected within 30 days, with a final report likely to be released within one to two years. The FAA’s actions have put a spotlight on drone safety and the regulations surrounding drone operations, particularly in public settings.
This incident serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with drone technology and the importance of stringent safety measures when operating drones, especially in crowded areas. The suspension of Sky Elements Drones’ operations highlights the FAA’s commitment to ensuring the safety of the public and preventing similar incidents in the future.
As the investigation continues, it is essential for drone operators to adhere to safety guidelines and regulations to prevent accidents and injuries. The outcome of the investigation will provide valuable insights into improving drone safety protocols and preventing similar incidents from occurring in the future.
