UKC Ljubljana heliport endangered by unauthorized drone flights

A medium-sized drone twice entered the airspace of the University Medical Centre (UKC) Ljubljana heliport during an August intervention, endangering a helicopter and the facility. Medical officials noted that such incidents occur several times a year and are particularly hazardous during the takeoff or landing of rescue helicopters.

UKC Ljubljana has reported the incidents to the Civil Aviation Agency and the police. Authorities stated that the operator of the drone has not yet been identified, a situation similar to a previous incident in March. The hospital plans to release a public statement on Tuesday regarding the incident and planned countermeasures.

In addition to drone interference, officials warned against the illegal and dangerous practice of pointing lasers at helicopter crews during flight, citing a previous incident involving a Slovenian Army helicopter.