Nuisance pilot who repeatedly ignored warnings not to fly over Hayling Island is fined after probe by the Civil Aviation Authority

Nuisance aviator Florin Olteanu had plagued residents of Hayling Island by repeatedly flying his paramotor – a paraglider wing with a petrol-driven propeller – over the coast and above premises.

His aerial antics sparked complaints from across the island, prompting a major investigation by Havant Borough Council, Hampshire police and the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

The probe found the pilot repeatedly ignored warnings from the council to stop his illegal flying over Hayling.

Now, Olteanu has been grounded – after receiving a £3,000 fine from magistrates.

A spokesperson for the UK Civil Aviation Authority, said: ‘Mr Olteanu refused to heed warnings from the Havant Borough Council and flew his paramotor low along the beach and seashore, close to people and buildings, repeatedly.

‘We would like to thank the witnesses who provided the witness and photographic evidence in this case and gave up their time to come to court to give evidence at trial.

‘The rules in relation to low flying are clear and exist for the safety of everyone, and the Civil Aviation Authority will prosecute those who break the rules.’

Olteanu, who pleaded not guilty to breaching any of the aviation rules, was prosecuted for flying at a height less than 500ft above the ground and water.

He was found to be in contravention of SERA.5005(f)(2), and Article 256(6) of the Air Navigation Order 2016 which resulted in a fine of £1,500. He must also pay £1,500 court costs and a victim surcharge of £150.

Councillor Narinder Bains, deputy leader at Havant Borough Council and cabinet lead for community safety, said: ‘I am grateful to the council officers and the Civil Aviation Authority for bringing this prosecution.

‘I am also thankful to the local residents for giving up their time to provide the necessary evidence in this matter, which was driven by the councils desire to provide a safe environment for residents and visitors to Hayling.’

All offences took place in the vicinity of south Hayling Island.

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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