Police warn drone users after Auchterarder incident

DRONE operators were warned by Police Scotland today after a device flew close to people and buildings in a Perthshire town.

Picture: Michael Gillen

The incident was reported in the Townhead area of the Perthshire town last Friday.

Unlicensed operators must not fly drones within 150m of a built-up area or within 50m of a building or people.

Those with licences from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) can fly devices weighing up to 7kg in built-up areas, with restrictions.

Licences are issued by the CAA after applicants have completed a operating proficiency course.

Constable Derek White said: “The use of drones is now popular to film or to take photographs and it is essential they are utilised responsibly so as not to cause alarm or injury to other members of the public.

“I would like to remind those who use drones to adhere to existing aviation laws and regulations.”

In one of the latest successful prosecutions, Nottingham security guard Nigel Wilson was fined £1,800 last month for flying a drone over several football stadia in England during matches.