GCAA issues warning over presence of animals near runways and aerodromes

The Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) is warning owners of animals against allowing their animals to enter aerodromes, saying the increasing number of animals crossing runways is posing a serious threat to aviation safety.

The warning from the GCAA comes weeks after a Trans Guyana aircraft slid off the runway of the Mabaruma Airstrip. It was later explained that an animal was on the runway at the time of landing.

In a statement, the GCAA said it is “alarmed” by the frequency with which animals have been crossing aerodrome runways across the country.

The Authority said the deliberate or negligent release of animals onto runways can obstruct aviation operations and place passengers, flight crews and aircraft at risk.

The GCAA noted that such incidents constitute offences under the Civil Aviation Act 2018 and warned that persons found responsible could face prosecution and significant penalties.

The Authority pointed specifically to Section 83(1) of the Act, which states that a person who trespasses on land forming part of an aerodrome, or causes an animal to trespass on such land, commits an offence.

“Anyone found responsible for compromising aviation safety will be prosecuted to the fullest extent and subjected to severe legal penalties. The safety and security of the aviation sector remain paramount, and the GCAA, in partnership with law enforcement, will ensure rigorous enforcement and decisive action against offenders,” the GCAA stated.

According to the provision, a person convicted summarily is liable to a fine of $1 million and six months’ imprisonment.

The GCAA said it will work with law enforcement agencies to ensure the law is enforced against persons whose actions compromise aviation safety. It reiterated that the safety of the travelling public remains its highest priority.