The highly anticipated drone light show planned for this year’s Lone Star New Year’s Eve celebration in Dallas has been canceled.
Sky Elements Drones, the Coppell-based company responsible for the aerial display, announced they would cancel their participation in the event “out of an abundance of caution” following a recent incident at a similar show in Orlando, Florida, also managed by the company.
A 7-year-old boy was injured when a drone collided with him during the show, according to a report from WESH 2 News. As a result, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) launched an investigation into the incident, which has prompted the agency to suspend Sky Elements’ Part 107 Waiver.
The 107 Waiver is essential for flying large drones in controlled airspace, allowing for operations outside standard drone flight regulations.
Sky Elements Drones, which had previously made headlines for setting a world record last month with a 4,981-drone display of a gingerbread village, decided to suspend the Dallas performance while they review their safety protocols.
“We are taking this step out of an abundance of caution and are fully committed to ensuring the safety of all involved,” said a representative for the company.
Reunion Tower, the iconic landmark where the drone show was to take place, confirmed that the aerial display would not proceed as planned. Dusti Groskreutz, president of Reunion Tower, expressed understanding and reassured the public that the New Year’s Eve festivities would continue as scheduled.
“Sky Elements Drones informed us that they will not be able to fly their New Year’s Eve show at Reunion Tower. They are doing this out of an abundance of caution following a recent incident and as they review processes for future shows,” Groskreutz told Fox 4 KDFW.
While the cancellation disappoints those hoping to witness the innovative drone light show, the New Year’s Eve celebration at Reunion Tower will still feature its traditional fireworks and light performances. The 259 LED lights on the tower’s exterior will be synchronized with music to ring in the new year, creating a dazzling visual experience for attendees.
For those still looking forward to the Lone Star NYE celebration, the fireworks show will begin at midnight. Live music performances and other festivities will also be held around downtown Dallas to welcome the new year.