The Danish government is proposing new legislation that would allow critical infrastructure operators, such as ports and airports, to shoot down unauthorized drones flying over their facilities. This proposal comes in response to increasing concerns about drone activity around sensitive areas, including instances where the owners of the drones remain unknown.

Minister of Transport Thomas Danielsen stated that the current security policy situation necessitates legislation addressing the use of drones over critical infrastructure, citing potential risks such as espionage. The proposed bill aims to decentralize the decision-making process regarding drone flight permits, enabling ports and other facilities to manage drone flight permissions within their areas. This would allow them to quickly determine whether a drone flight is authorized.

The method for taking down drones is not specified in the legislation, leaving it to the discretion of the infrastructure operators. Danielsen suggested that while professional means could be used, other methods, like using a shotgun, could also be employed. He acknowledged the risk of hobby drones being mistakenly shot down, but emphasized that the proposal is limited to particularly critical infrastructure, and drone operators have a responsibility to be aware of flight restrictions.

The proposal has been welcomed by Copenhagen Airport and Køge Harbor. Copenhagen Airport has experienced increasing drone activity that could potentially disrupt air traffic. The airport’s Chief Operating Officer expressed satisfaction that the issue is being addressed politically.