Trinidad and Tobago Probes ‘Reckless’ Drone Flights Near ANR Robinson
Key Points
- 1Ministry of Defence launched an investigation into illegal drone activity near ANR Robinson International Airport's 5km no-fly zone.
- 2The drone flights were confirmed to have violated the mandatory five-kilometer restricted area, creating a severe risk of collision with commercial aircraft and potential mass loss of life.
- 3The illegal surveillance targeted a controversial US-installed military radar system, which the Ministry of Defence deemed a threat to national security interests.
- 4The Trinidad and Tobago Civil Aviation Authority (TTCAA) strictly prohibits drone operation within the 5 km airport no-fly zone without explicit authorization.
The Ministry of Defence in Trinidad and Tobago has launched a formal investigation. The probe targets illegal drone activity near two major airports. These airports are Piarco International and ANR Robinson International Airport in Tobago. The Ministry expressed “great concern” over these unauthorized flights.
Objective verification showed drones flew within the five-kilometer no-fly zone. This is a clear airport no-fly zone violation. The Ministry stated these actions were illegal and reckless. They warned of the real possibility of collisions. Such an event could lead to "loss of life on a massive scale."
Serious Safety Risk to Commercial Aviation
The flights pose an inherent danger to commercial aircraft. Both incoming and outgoing flights are at risk. The Ministry of Defence highlighted the reckless endangerment created by drone operators. A collision with a drone can cause catastrophic engine failure. This presents a severe commercial aircraft safety risk for all passengers.
Drone operations in airport no-fly zones are strictly prohibited. The Trinidad and Tobago Civil Aviation Authority (TTCAA) enforces these rules. All drones over 250g must be registered with the TTCAA. Operating a drone near an airport requires explicit authorization. The TTCAA drone regulations mandate a five-kilometer exclusion zone around airports.
National Security and Military Radar Context
The investigation focuses heavily on surveillance footage. A drone captured an aerial photograph of a restricted area. This image was published by a media house on December 21. It showed a US-installed military radar system. The site also contained support equipment like tents and vehicles.
The radar system is located near ANR Robinson International Airport, Crown Point. It is part of a security initiative led by the United States. The system is designed to enhance surveillance against drug traffickers. Some reports suggest the radar is the AN/TPS-80 G/ATOR system. This is a multi-mission air and missile surveillance radar.
Defence Minister Wayne Sturge noted the footage acquisition is a national security threat. The desire to disseminate footage of military installations is “inimical to national security interests.” It “exposes the citizenry to those who would benefit from the use of such information.”
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar previously addressed the controversy. She confirmed the equipment was a radar, not a full US military base. She criticized attempts to manufacture controversy. The Prime Minister reiterated the US-T&T partnership is vital. It is seen as a significant blow to drug-trafficking networks.
Ongoing Investigation and Enforcement
The Trinidad and Tobago Ministry of Defence confirmed active investigations. The goal is to identify the anonymous source. This individual conducted the drone surveillance. The Ministry seeks to prevent any further undermining of security. They also aim to ensure the safety of all airline passengers.
- The State will take necessary actions against defiant operators.
- This includes measures afforded under the current state of emergency.
- The probe covers both Piarco International Airport and the Tobago facility.
This incident highlights a growing global challenge for air traffic control. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) pose a threat to commercial aviation. Strict adherence to TTCAA drone regulations is critical for safety. You can follow more commercial aviation news on flying.flights. The FAA and EASA continue to develop counter-drone strategies. This is to protect airports and the traveling public.
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