UK pilots warn of disaster, seek tougher rules for drones
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The British Airline Pilots Association is warning of a looming catastrophe unless drones are subject to tougher regulations.
The association demanded the compulsory registration of drones Monday after Gatwick Airport briefly closed its runway over safety concerns when a drone was spotted in the area.
Authorities diverted four EasyJet flights. One British Airways flight was sent to Bournemouth Airport.
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The union's flight safety specialist, Steve Landells, says the incident shows "the threat of drones being flown near manned aircraft must be addressed before we see a disaster."
There have been several near-misses between drones and aircraft in Britain, with sheer chance averting collision in some cases.
Under British rules, a drone operator must be able to see it at all times and keep them away from planes, helicopters, airports and airfields.