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Barbadians urged to be cautious when kite-flying

A variety of kites on display. (Photo by Thalia Clarke)
By Kiara Smith on Thursday, 7 April, 2022 at 06:02 PM

The Easter season is approaching, and The Barbados Civil Aviation Department posted its annual reminder, that kite-flying in districts where there are low-flying aircraft is prohibited.

This popular Easter tradition of kite-flying has been neglected for two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there are less restrictions this year and this activity may revive, as the public goes out to fly kites all around the island.

Nevertheless, people are urged to avoid flying kites in restricted areas, since this activity is dangerous to aircraft. Persons who fail to follow those rules will be prosecuted.

The Barbados Civil Aviation Department said, “Districts which fall five kilometres off the perimetre of the Grantley Adams International Airport are considered no kite-flying zones."

Some of these zones are also in many areas of Christ Church and St. Phillip.

The Barbados Light and Power Company Limited (BL&P) advises the public to always fly kites in wide-open spaces, check surroundings before putting kites in the air, fly kites away from power lines and utility poles because electricity can easily travel down the kite lines to the person flying it, and this can be dangerous.

The BL&P also recommends not flying kites too close to other kites since it can cause an accident and people should not try to retrieve kites from trees that have power lines running through them.

During this time of year, many people complain about the noises the kites make throughout the day and night.

Barbadian resident, Mario Thomas, said he does not have an interest in flying kites and as it relates to the noise, he does not mind if it is during the day, but it becomes annoying during the night time.

Daryus Samuel said, ”I really don’t have any issues about it. I know it’s a hobby a lot of Bajans and people across the Caribbean have… I do believe there is a time and place, for instance maybe at night, you might be keeping up some of the neighbours or what’s not, but it does not affect me personally.”

Hairstylist Julia Skeete said the people who leave the kites out overnight have no consideration for people in the neighbourhood.

She added, “The noise is irritating, but kite flying is not a problem.”

Persons found guilty of flying kites in the restricted areas may be fined between $50,000 and $100,000 or imprisoned for a period of 12 months or up to two years. 

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