Summary:

Central Park's New Year's Eve drone show is canceled due to safety concerns.
The decision follows a series of record brush fires in NYC.
The cancellation is also linked to a Florida drone show accident that injured a child.
The FAA is investigating the Florida incident.
Organizers prioritize public safety above all else.

NYC's New Year's Eve Drone Show in Central Park is Cancelled

The highly anticipated New Year's Eve drone show in Central Park has been canceled. This follows the recent cancellation of the traditional fireworks display due to the city's historic drought and brush fire risk. The decision comes after a drone malfunction at a Florida holiday show injured a 7-year-old boy.

Safety Concerns Lead to Cancellation

NYC Parks Commissioner Donoghue stated that the unprecedented number of brush fires this year necessitates prioritizing public safety. The FDNY responded to over 270 brush fires in a two-week period—the highest in city history. The company originally slated for the drone show was also involved in the Florida incident where a child was seriously injured by a falling drone. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently investigating this accident.

Concerns About Drone Safety

The company involved, Sky Elements Drones, issued a statement saying they are cooperating with the FAA and Orlando officials to determine what happened in Florida. They've previously worked on drone shows for the NFL, NASCAR and Major League Baseball.

The New York Road Runners, who usually host fireworks for their midnight run, opted for the drone show as an alternative, only to have that plan scrapped as well due to safety concerns. The organizers emphasized that the safety and well-being of the public is their top priority.

Source: NBC New York