The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) has issued a strong warning to the public against flying kites near airport runways, citing serious aviation safety concerns.
In an official statement, the SLAF emphasized that kite flying in the vicinity of airport runways poses a significant risk to aircraft operations and has been recognized globally as a contributing factor to air accidents. The presence of kites and their strings in critical flight paths can obstruct aircraft during takeoff and landing, potentially leading to dangerous incidents.
"Such activity directly obstructs aircraft operations and endangers both passengers and crew," the statement noted.
The Air Force specifically identified areas surrounding several key airports and air bases as high-risk zones. These include Katunayake, Ratmalana, Hingurakgoda, China Bay, Palaly, Katukurunda, Koggala, Vavuniya, Weerawila, and Mattala. Flying kites in these regions is considered especially hazardous due to the proximity to active runways and airspace.
The SLAF urged the public to act responsibly and avoid such activities to ensure the safety of air travel and prevent avoidable accidents.
