Media

Sky lanterns are a popular feature at celebrations such as weddings, birthdays and festivals. However, while they may create a striking visual display, they can also pose significant risks to aviation, public safety and the environment.

Once released, sky lanterns can travel considerable distances at unpredictable heights, depending on weather conditions and prevailing winds. This unpredictability creates a potential hazard for aircraft, particularly in the vicinity of airports, where lanterns could interfere with flight operations or be ingested into aircraft engines.

In addition to aviation risks, sky lanterns may be mistaken for distress flares, potentially triggering unnecessary Coast Guard responses. They can also create fire hazards, damage property, and pose risks to livestock and wildlife when debris falls back to the ground.

The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) does not endorse or encourage the use of sky lanterns. Anyone considering a release should carefully follow the IAA's safety guidelines, including avoiding launches within 10 nautical miles of an active airport, limiting releases to no more than 20 lanterns at a time, and notifying relevant authorities where appropriate.

Before planning a sky lantern release, organisers are encouraged to consider the wider safety implications and ensure all necessary precautions are taken to protect people, property, animals and aircraft.
View the IAA's safety leaflet for Sky Lanterns at >> https://www.iaa.ie/publications/docs/default-source/publications/corporate-publications/safety-leaflets/sky-lanterns-safety-leaflet