ORLANDO, Fla. – Several drone shows hosted by Sky Elements, including those in Central Florida, have been canceled following a drone accident at Lake Eola on Saturday. Universal Orlando has also grounded its drones, citing extra precautions.
Visitors at Universal Studios Florida shared mixed reactions to the decision to pause the drone component of the park’s nightly show, “Cinesational: A Symphonic Spectacular.”
The show features special effects, projections, fountains, and — previously — more than 600 drones.
“I can feel the disappointment, especially if you have a family excited for it,” said one visitor near the park.
Another added, “It’s probably fair enough. They need to check on their drones to make sure everything works properly.”
Universal confirmed Sky Elements as the vendor for its drone show.
[EXCLUSIVE: Become a News 6 Insider (it’s FREE) | PINIT! Share your photos]
“We have currently paused the drone component of Cinesational: A Symphonic Spectacular. Guests can still enjoy the show nightly at Universal Studios Florida,” a spokesperson told News 6.
The Orlando World Center Marriott also canceled its holiday drone show by Sky Elements, which was set to begin Christmas Day and run through Dec. 30.
The cancellations follow a serious accident at Lake Eola on Saturday, where video shows several drones falling to the ground, critically injuring a 7-year-old boy. The boy remains hospitalized.
The accident occurred just one day after Sky Elements set a world record for the “longest drone animation” during a show in North Richland Hills, Texas.
Sky Elements, which emphasizes safety on its website, states that it “tests all drones beforehand to ensure proper functionality of hardware, software, and batteries.”
The city of Ocala, which contracted Sky Elements for a Fourth of July drone show last year, recently agreed to pay $300,000 for another show in 2024.
Following Saturday’s accident, Ocala city officials said, “As we learn more, we will take every necessary precaution to ensure our community’s and attendees’ safety at our events.”
Despite the incident, some visitors remain optimistic about future shows.
“I would still watch the drone shows. Accidents happen. What are the odds it would happen again?” said a visitor.
The FAA and NTSB are investigating the Lake Eola drone accident.
Universal has not announced how long the drones will remain grounded.
Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily: