Gliders can't fly too close to beaches, Ras Al Khaimah authority warns

Ras Al Khaimah - Erring pilots of single-engine gliders will be prosecuted.

Glider pilots violating norms and flying close to beaches could face legal action, the Ras Al Khaimah authorities have warned.
The Ras Al Khaimah Police and the Department of Civil Aviation have urged all pilots of recreational gliders with a 'paramotor' engine to strictly comply with the licensing regulations for such kind of aircraft to ensure beachgoers' safety.
Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, chairman of the Department of Civil Aviation, said erring pilots of single-engine gliders will be prosecuted.
"Some pilots do not obtain the necessary licences to fly gliders, while others land and take off from undesignated areas."
Some glider pilots have been reportedly flying to levels very close to the beaches triggering panic among visitors, residents and tourists, he added.
"All pilots of 'paramotor' planes need to observe the prescribed measures to ensure their own safety as well as that of others."
Wave of worry
Residents and tourists have voiced concern over some gliders reportedly being flown close to the beaches putting lives of beachgoers at risk.
Mohammed Ibrahim, an Emirati national, said he was enjoying the scenic views on one of the RAK beaches when he was shocked to see a glider pilot flying at a very low level. "This is very risky, and has to come to a stop," he pointed out.
Sara Mustafa, an Egyptian resident, said she was at the beach with her family when a glider pilot flew very close to them. "He caused panic among the beachgoers, particularly the women and children. If anything goes wrong, many people could be badly hurt," she added.
ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com 

• Ras Al Khaimah