Jeju Airport expands drone surveillance beyond controlled airspace

Jeju Airport is enhancing its surveillance of unauthorized drones, extending its monitoring zone beyond the current air traffic control area. The airport will now patrol a 9.3-kilometer radius, encompassing flight paths even outside the controlled airspace, in response to a growing number of drone incidents that threaten aviation safety.

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Unauthorized drones can jeopardize aircraft safety, similar to bird strikes, and air traffic control can halt takeoffs and landings if deemed problematic.

This decision comes after a recent surge in drone activity near the airport, with 12 out of 57 detected unauthorized drone sightings this year occurring outside the established control zone. A notable incident involved a drone spotted in Aewol, far from the airport, which led to flight disruptions. Airport officials emphasize that while drones flown outside the control zone may not require prior approval, they can still pose a significant threat to aircraft operations, potentially leading to flight cancellations.

To bolster its surveillance capabilities, Jeju Airport is increasing its senior surveillance team from 100 to 132 members. These teams will patrol areas with frequent drone activity and assist the police. Additionally, the airport is partnering with Tmap, a domestic navigation service provider. Tmap users entering a 15-kilometer radius of Jeju Airport will receive an audio alert reminding them to verify drone flight permissions.

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While drone flights outside the control zone do not require prior approval, they can be deemed illegal if they pose a direct or indirect threat to aircraft operations.

Jeju Airport Director Jang Se-hwan highlighted the rising risk of unauthorized drone flights near airports due to the increasing popularity of drones. He urged the public to utilize the 'Drone One-Stop Civil Service System' before flying drones to ensure safe operations and prevent potential threats to air traffic.

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The risk of unauthorized drone incidents near airports is increasing with the proliferation of drones. We urge the public to always check 'Drone One-Stop Civil Service System' before flying drones and use them safely.