On Thursday, a spectacular drone display illuminated the night sky over New York City to mark the game Candy Crush’s tenth anniversary. 500 GPS-linked drones were reportedly utilized to create massive flying advertising for the game, according to the New York Post. The 10-minute coordinated performance made the sky “the largest screen on the globe.” The spectacular show, however, sparked a debate since environmentalists said it significantly increased air pollution.
“I find it ridiculous to ruin our city’s skyline for personal gain. It is disrespectful to New Yorkers, our regional laws, public safety, and wildlife, “The source cites Senator Brad Hoylman as stating.
Dustin Partridge, an environmentalist, was among those who worried the light show would disorient thousands of migratory birds.
The Post reported Mr. Partridge, the head of conservation and research at NYC Audubon, adding, “The Hudson is a crucial flyway for birds, and fortunately, it’s been dark.”
Even one drone cannot soar to great heights in the sky in New York due to aviation regulations. However, according to a source in The Verge, the event’s organizers launched them from across the Hudson River in New Jersey to avoid the rules.
Since drone usage is also restricted in New Jersey’s state parks, the event was granted particular use permit, the outlet added in its report.
Such a drone light show has occurred in the neighborhood before. NBA basketball association utilized the same loophole to launch light drones over the Hudson River in June of this year.
