Firework planners warned about aircraft threat

(CNS): With the ‘Appointed Day’ almost upon us, Pirates Week just around the corner and the Christmas Season almost due to start, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Cayman Islands (CAACI) is asking organizers planning firework and light displays to obtain approval from the authority to prevent potential threats to aircraft operations. The associated risk posed by displays is increased when the activities take place in the vicinity of aerodromes, particularly during critical phases of flight including approach, landing and take-off.

Firework displays can vary from small domestic events to major commercial or ceremonial displays with light shows including outdoor laser and searchlight displays. The CAACI explained that the hazard is more likely to be from the unexpected dazzle rather than ocular or physical damage, although the risk of actual injury cannot be ruled out.

“Approval from the CCACI is required to mitigate such risks for all firework activity that takes place within 3 nautical miles ofan airport or under the approach and departure flight paths.  Firework displays outside this area but where the display height is expected to exceed 200ft above ground level must also be approved by the CAACI,” the Aviation safety body said. “ Proposed laser and searchlight events within the same areas are similarly subject to coordination with and approval.”

A diagram showing the dimensions of the areas in question is available from the authority and all organizers planning events in what is considered to be a risk area should discuss their requirements with the CAACI well in advance of the intended date.  All such enquiries should be addressed to:

Director of Air Navigation Services, Civil Aviation Authority of the Cayman Islands, Unit 2 Grand harbor, PO Box 10277, Grand Cayman KY1-1003, Cayman Islands.  Tel:  (345) 949-7811, Fax: (345) 949-0761, E-mail: civil.aviation@caacayman.com

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Cayman Islands is the regulator for the aviation industry throughout the Cayman Islands and for aircraft registered in the Cayman Islands.