Fireworks could fizzle out as drones rise in popularity for new year

As new year approaches, crowds around the world may be expecting whizzes and bangs to light up the sky. But the appeal of fireworks could fizzle out with the growing use of drones for light shows.

They are also being embraced at a local level: more than 1,000 people watched a drone display at Mercia Marina in Derbyshire to celebrate Bonfire Night this year.

But not everyone agrees. A spokesperson from the British Fireworks Association said drones could also pose environmental problems.

An RSPCA spokesperson said that while drones were a possible idea to try to reduce the impact of displays on animals, there were downsides.

Some suggest the use of fireworks and drones are not mutually exclusive. The crackle and bangs of pyrotechnics create a sound sensation that is hard to replace.

But, as Neff noted, using drones to avoid the potential problems from fireworks involves people ditching the latter.