Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) (Private) Limited has says kite flying within a five-kilometer radius of airports to be a punishable offense. The announcement was made today by the aviation authority, and it comes as a measure to mitigate potential risks posed by kites to aircraft operations.

“It is strictly prohibited to fly kites or any similar object in the air within a 5 kilometer limit of 300 feet in the vicinity of the Sri Lanka International Airports.” statement says.

Authorities have urged the public, especially those living in proximity to airports, to comply with the new regulation immediately. According to the announcement, offenders caught flying kites within the restricted zone will be subject to fines and legal action.