Sky lanterns could be a hazard to aircraft, the Bermuda Civil Aviation Authority has warned.

The BCAA outlined cases in which the use of the lanterns had to be reported to the authority.

The BCAA said the paper lanterns, which use hot air from a candle to become airborne, also carried a fire risk and that anyone launching the devices would be liable for damage caused.

A spokesman said the authority “does not endorse or encourage the use of sky lanterns”.

He added that anyone who planned to release the lanterns, also known as Chinese lanterns, must contact the BCAA one business day in advance if:

• Releasing ten or more lanterns anywhere on the island or from a vessel in Bermuda waters;

• Releasing one or more sky lanterns at a site ten nautical miles — 11.5 miles — or less from LF Wade International Airport.

People or group who launch ten sky lanterns or fewer at a site more than ten nautical miles from the airport does not have to notify BCAA.

Anywhere east of the parish boundary between Southampton and Warwick is within ten nautical miles of the airport — including islands or vessels in the Great Sound and Boaz and Ireland Island South and North.

The BCAA also reminded the public that sky lanterns should never be tied together.

The Civil Aviation Authority can be contacted at 293-1640.