Drone Chaos: Fatboy Slim Nearly Hit by Out-of-Control Drone at Brighton Festival
A drone pilot has been slapped with a fine after his gadget went haywire and nearly crashed into DJ legend Fatboy Slim during the On The Beach festival on Brighton Beach. The wild stunt happened on July 24, 2022, sparking a rare prosecution for reckless drone flying endangering lives.
Heart-Stopping Footage Shows Drone Crash
Sussex Police have released dramatic video footage revealing the drone spiralling out of control before smashing onto the stage, just inches away from Fatboy Slim mid-set. The incident is the first prosecution of its kind, highlighting the real dangers drones pose when flown irresponsibly in crowded events.
Drone Operator Fined Nearly £900
- Giles Dalby, 39, a former fire safety worker from Brighton, has been hit with a total fine of £891.
- This includes a £576 fine, a £230 surcharge, plus £85 in costs.
- Sussex Police and the UK Civil Aviation Authority shared the footage to warn others about the hazards of careless drone operation.
“Dalby is lucky nobody was hurt,” warned PC Steven Prince, Sussex Police’s Drone Training Officer. “This should remind all drone users to follow the law and fly safely.”
Strict Rules for Drone Operators
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) strictly regulates drone flying. All operators must register and obtain a flyer ID before taking off. The CAA website caa.co.uk/drones offers vital advice on safe flying.
Jonathan Nicholson, a CAA spokesperson, said:
“Drones can be fun and useful, like delivering medical supplies. But flying them irresponsibly can cause serious accidents — as this incident shows. Our drone code helps users stay safe and within the rules.”
Operators are legally responsible for keeping drones in sight, flying below restricted altitudes, and avoiding busy or congested areas — especially at packed events.
