Bill to stop kite flying near airports

Manila: Seeking to avoid a repeat of an incident in April when a helicopter crashed after its rotor got entangled with kite strings, a lawmaker is proposing a law that will make it illegal to fly kites near airports.

A Bill filed by Prospero Nograles, seeks to prohibit flying of kites, balloons and other flying toys near military and civilian airfields. The proposed law aims to make kite flying near airports punishable.

Under Nograles's proposal, those caught flying kites near airports could be sentenced to a 6 to 12 years imprisonment and a fine of not leas than 100,000 peso ($2,325; Dh8,532).

Nograles said parents should be held liable if a minor child is found flying kites and balloons or rocket toys near an airport.

Nograles said kites and balloons may appear harmless, but they have potential of causing an air crash.