Bengaluru Airport Security Breach: FIRs Filed Against Real Estate Firm and YouTuber for Drone and Balloon Use
In a significant security incident at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru, two separate First Information Reports (FIRs) have been registered against a real estate company and a popular YouTuber for unauthorized aerial activities within the airport's highly restricted premises. The cases highlight serious violations of aviation safety protocols under the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) guidelines.
Real Estate Firm's Sky Balloon Promotion Triggers Security Alert
According to official complaints filed by CISF officer Nagendra L., the first incident occurred on January 5, 2024, at approximately 11:40 AM. Airport security personnel spotted a promotional sky balloon belonging to BCD Construction flying within KIA's operational area. The aviation security team, along with the bomb detection and disposal squad, immediately conducted a thorough inspection of the balloon. While no explosives were found, the act was deemed a severe breach as KIA is classified as a Red Zone, a strict no-fly area under DGCA regulations.
The FIR against BCD Construction was formally registered on February 7, 2024, following consultations with senior officials to assess the security implications. The use of the balloon for advertising purposes not only violated airspace restrictions but also posed potential risks to aircraft operations and passenger safety.
YouTuber's Drone Footage of Metro Construction Draws Legal Action
In a separate but related incident, the same CISF officer reported that on January 4, 2024, a YouTuber operating under the account name 'Bangalore Wanderlust' used a drone to capture aerial footage of the ongoing Namma Metro upper ramp construction within the airport premises. This unauthorized drone operation was detected by airport authorities, leading to a security review.
The complaint against the YouTuber was filed on February 8, 2024, with delays attributed to necessary consultations with higher-ranking officials to ensure proper legal procedures were followed. The drone activity, conducted without prior permission, directly contravened aviation safety laws designed to prevent interference with airport infrastructure and flight paths.
Legal Charges Under Aircraft Act and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita
Both cases have been registered under stringent legal provisions to address the gravity of the violations. The accused parties face charges under:
- The Aircraft Act, which governs all aspects of civil aviation in India, including airspace security and unauthorized aerial devices.
- Section 125 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which deals with acts endangering life or personal safety of others—a critical charge given the potential hazards posed by such activities in an airport environment.
These legal actions underscore the zero-tolerance policy towards any activities that compromise airport security, especially in sensitive zones like KIA. Authorities have emphasized that such violations can lead to severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment, to deter future incidents.
The incidents serve as a stark reminder to businesses, content creators, and the public about the strict enforcement of no-fly zones around airports. With Bengaluru's airport being a critical hub in India's aviation network, maintaining unimpeded security is paramount to ensuring safe travel for millions of passengers annually.
