The Civil Aviation Department today reminded the public not to shine laser beams, operate drones or fly sky lanterns that may interfere with flying aircraft.

The department said the public should avoid jeopardising aviation safety and contravening the law.

It noted there were online posts about shining laser beams, operating drones, or flying sky lanterns at different places across the city which may pose risks to aviation safety.

The department said there are frequent take-offs and landings at the Hong Kong International Airport and a large number of overflights through the Hong Kong Flight Information Region daily.

Interference with aircraft may put passengers as well as the public at serious risk, it added.

According to the Air Navigation (Hong Kong) Order 1995, anyone who exhibits light, including laser beams, recklessly or negligently operates a drone or flies a sky lantern that endangers aircraft is liable to a fine and two years’ imprisonment.

The Government will closely monitor the situation and take appropriate measures and actions to ensure air traffic safety.