MoCA bans lantern kites near IGI Airport for Diwali; Delhi police to act against violators

The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has taken a significant step to enhance safety measures around the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport in New Delhi by banning the use of lantern kites, wish kites, and hot air balloons within a two-kilometer radius of the airport.

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This advisory, issued ahead of the Diwali festival, comes in light of growing concerns about the safety of aircraft operations and passengers.

The directive reflects MoCA's ongoing commitment to ensuring secure and efficient air travel during high-risk periods, such as festival seasons, when the use of these objects tends to increase.

The advisory was formally announced after the Delhi Police, following suggestions from MoCA, issued an order to enforce the ban.

This precautionary measure aims to address the potential hazards posed by these airborne objects to aircraft, particularly during critical phases of flight such as takeoff and landing.

The advisory was released at a time when celebrations like Diwali often see an uptick in the use of lantern kites and other similar objects, particularly in residential and commercial areas near the airport.

The directive highlights the danger that these kites and hot air balloons pose to aircraft.