Ryanair boss has revealed his idea to bring down troublesome drones at Dublin airport.
Chief Executive Michael O’Leary has said, as he called on the Minister for Transport to implement it immediately.
Speaking on RTÉ’s Morning Ireland, Mr O’Leary said it requires Dublin Airport having the power to disable drones with specific technology.
It comes after further trouble prevented planes taking off or landing at Dublin Airport yesterday.
Up to 20,000 passengers were affected by last night’s disruption.
Mr O’Leary said “What we need today is not legislation, we need the minister to authorise Dublin Airport to spend the €100,000, buy the electronic equipment which will disable these drones when they are identified and bring them down,” Mr O’Leary said.
“We need that done today. We don’t need a memo to Cabinet next Tuesday. What happens if the airport is shut again Saturday or Sunday?”
Mr O’Leary said he understands Dublin Airport has sought permission from the Department of Transport to acquire anti-drone technology, but cannot get permission.
He said there is no reason why Ireland’s main airport should not have this technology in place, and he called on Minister Ryan to outline his action on it by lunchtime.
“If you need legislation, pass the legislation in three or six months, but our passengers cannot wait and should not be expected to wait,” he said.
“How many more disruptions at Dublin Airport will we have while waiting for Minister Ryan to pass legislation? Make a decision. Take the drones down today, tomorrow and worry about the legislation afterwards.”
