The Great Lakes Drone Company has confirmed it will issue a full refund of $40,000 to the City of SeaTac following a technical failure that disrupted its highly-anticipated 4th of July drone show.

As we previously reported, the incident occurred at Angle Lake Park on the 4th of July, when a sudden signal disruption caused 55 of 200 drones to malfunction and fall into the lake, cutting the show short.

City officials and the vendor are currently investigating the cause of the disruption.

Mary Tuttle, SeaTac’s Parks & Recreation Director, is working closely with the Great Lake Drone Company on the issue. Despite the setback, the event continued with a traditional fireworks display put on by the Angle Lake Shore Club, ensuring the celebration went on.

The drone show was a key feature of the city’s annual Family 4th of July event, intended to offer a modern, environmentally friendly alternative to fireworks, and done because a resident who lives near Angle Lake complained and cited a 1932 court ruling.

However, the malfunction led to disappointment among the thousands of residents and visitors who had gathered at Angle Lake Park to enjoy the festivities.

The malfunctioning drones did not cause any injuries or property damage, and safety protocols were effectively followed to manage the situation.

Photo of SeaTac Drone Show courtesy Matt Markovich.