Drone show mishap sees flying machines drop out of the sky

A drone show in Perth, Australia, didn’t quite go according to plan after a number of the flying machines fell out of the sky and crashed into the water during the performance. Sunday night’s “City of Light” event took place in front of thousands of onlookers, but as the show proceeded, LED-laden drones could be seen dropping from the display after malfunctioning. A video shared by 9News Perth showed some of the devices plummeting toward the river for no obvious reason.

The highly-anticipated City Of Light Christmas drone show didn’t go exactly as planned last night…

Multiple drones began malfunctioning and falling from the sky throughout, crashing into the Swan River below as crowds watched on. #9News pic.twitter.com/oThMMvUEYf — 9News Perth (@9NewsPerth) November 21, 2022

Joshua Van Ross, managing director of Drone Sky Show, which organized the event, said 50 of the display’s 500 drones encountered some kind of difficulty that caused them to plummet into the river below. With each aircraft worth £2,000 Australian dollars (about £1,320), Drone Sky Show lost AUD £100,000 (about £66,000) worth of equipment by the time the display had finished.

“If there is any wind interference, drones do hit each other, that does happen, propellers snap, there are things that go wrong,” Van Ross told local news outlet WA Today. But he added: “Two to three drones [falling] per show is actually normal … last night was not normal.” GPS interference is also being investigated as a potential cause of the drone dropouts. Van Ross said the unexpected calamity made him “cry a little bit …

I am trying not to think about it … but it was an expensive show for us.” Divers were sent into the river the following day in an effort to fish out the drones, though water damage means it’s unlikely that they’ll be able to fly again. The good news is that those who had turned up to watch the aerial light show were never in any danger, as the show took place over water and at least 120 meters from the nearest onlookers.

With drone technology advancing all the time, and increasingly complex software able to program numerous quadcopters to fly in formation, light shows using the machines have become more and more popular, in some cases taking the place of fireworks-based events.

It’s rare to hear of a mishap on the scale of Sunday’s event in Perth, so it will be interesting to find out what exactly caused so many drones to fall out of the sky during a single performance.

Editors’ Recommendations

Tags:

opodo listed on couponmatrix.ukpharmacy2u listed on couponmatrix.ukroyal-bathrooms listed on couponmatrix.ukthe-couture-club listed on couponmatrix.ukthe-online-clinic listed on couponmatrix.ukugg listed on couponmatrix.uk
opodo listed on couponmatrix.ukLooking for a low stress way to book a holiday or a trip away? Opodo will help you with its one-stop shop for holiday bookings. With an emphasis on making their website as fast, clear and useful as possible, they aim to help you book a holiday as quick as possible. Here at Groupon we look to make that process one step better by saving you money with an Opodo discount code, ensuring you've got your flight, hotel and car rental in one concise and reduced package.
pharmacy2u listed on couponmatrix.ukStaying on top of your health can be difficult sometimes, but with Pharmacy2U it’s never been more simple. So much of your life happens online that it makes perfect sense to start sorting your prescriptions online too, and with a Pharmacy2U discount code this service can be yours at a price you’ll hardly be able to believe. For all the products and functions of your average high-street pharmacy without ever leaving the comfort of your own home, pick Pharmacy2U.
royal-bathrooms listed on couponmatrix.ukTurn your toilet into your own personal sanctuary with Royal Bathrooms, the specialist supplier of bathroom décor that believes there’s a design that’s right for everyone. Soaking up a hot bath may be your preferred pastime or you may just consider showering a daily necessity, either way with a Royal Bathrooms discount code you’re sure to upgrade your bathing space on a budget. Even if you just need an extra towel rack or some sealant to patch up some cracks, Royal Bathrooms has all the trimmings you need to keep your bathroom pristine.
the-couture-club listed on couponmatrix.ukPut yourself out there in true street style with The Couture Club’s raw flair. Setting trends on beaches, in bars and gyms everywhere, this modern British brand takes a cool yet comfortable take on fashion, aiming to keep their customers turning heads without breaking a sweat. Sample and save with a Couture Club discount code and add some of their tracksuits, swim shorts, t-shirts and other signature streetwear to your wardrobe today.
the-online-clinic listed on couponmatrix.ukWhatever illness or condition you endure, know that there’s near-instant assistance available at The Online Clinic. As an online consultation company, customers across the country can connect with doctors and then leave with a prescription in minutes. From migraines to malaria, a The Online Clinic discount code can help cut costs on medications that treat an array of ailments. So don’t let ill health hamper you another second, turn to The Online Clinic and get the treatment you need. The Online Clinic team are all too aware that medicine – though a necessary expense – can sometimes be a drain on your monthly budget, which is why they provide free next-day delivery on all medications as standard. If it’s your prescription you seek savings on, check out our Groupon page for highlights of any special promotions as well as any voucher codes that could cut the cost the next time you restock. We all known how it feels to hurt, but when pain becomes too intense or prolonged, it may be time to seek help from The Online Clinics pain management service. Whether you struggle with consistent back pain or acute episodes that appear at random, you’ll want a The Online Clinic promo code handy to land quality meds that can put your mind and body at ease without breaking the bank.
ugg listed on couponmatrix.ukFounded in 1978, UGG Australia started as a bag of sheepskin boots slung over Brian Smith’s shoulder when he landed in Southern California with the dream of sharing his passion with the world. It turned out that the relaxed So Cal beach scene was the perfect fit for his brand and by the mid ’80s; the UGG brand was ingrained in the counter culture. UGG Australia is a brand of cosy sheepskin boots dedicated to women, men and children. The beginning of their fame is dated to the beginning of the early 2000s when it became a must-wear item among celebs. Use an UGG discount code to share in this relaxed approach to life for less. Take advantage of these amazing money-off offers, discounts and promotions at Groupon.