Police seize drone from airport restricted zone

An unauthorised drone flying in restricted airspace near Luton Airport has been seized by police.

Officers on duty at Luton's Party in the Park spotted the device being piloted over nearby Alton Road on Saturday.

Bedfordshire Police said this "breached the airport's flight restriction zone, external" which extends over the town centre and eastern half of Luton and into the surrounding countryside as far as East Hyde, Bendish and King's Walden.

A London Luton Airport spokesperson said: "Safety is always our highest priority. Drones can pose a risk when operated in restricted airspace or close to aircraft."

Police at the Stockwood Park event, which was headlined by the Kaiser Chiefs, had been monitoring the airspace.

They went to the address in Alton Road, tracked down the drone pilot who did not have the relevant authorisation to fly.

The drone was seized temporarily and words of advice were issued as part of a Community Resolution. No arrest was made or caution given.

The airport spokesperson added: "Anyone flying a drone must comply with the relevant aviation regulations and restrictions.

"We will always support police and other agencies where enforcement action is required."

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