Several drone shows have been canceled or put on hold after a tragic incident at a holiday show in Orlando on December 21. The incident involved drones striking a crowd at Lake Eola Park, resulting in injuries and prompting safety concerns.
Among the affected events are those at Universal Orlando, Orlando World Center Marriott, and holiday events in Dallas, Austin, and New York City's Central Park. The specific companies responsible for producing the shows have not been disclosed.
Footage from the incident shows drones colliding with each other and falling from the sky, with some landing in the lake, on the ground, and near spectators. A 7-year-old boy was struck in the chest by one of the drones, requiring emergency heart surgery. The severity of the injuries has led to the cancellation of several drone shows.
The drone show at Lake Eola Park was operated by Sky Elements Drones, a Texas-based organization known for drone light shows. Following the incident, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) suspended Sky Elements' waiver to fly multiple drones while an investigation is ongoing.
The FAA, along with the National Transportation Safety Board, will conduct a thorough investigation into the incident to determine the cause and prevent future occurrences. Sky Elements has expressed its commitment to cooperating with authorities and ensuring the highest safety standards for its shows.
According to FAA regulations, drone arrays and light shows require waivers to operate multiple drones simultaneously. Each application undergoes rigorous review to ensure public safety and compliance with regulations.
Orlando city officials have extended their sympathies to the affected individuals and families, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing safety in such events. The incident serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with drone shows and the need for stringent safety measures to protect spectators.
