16. —(1) The Minister, in relation to an airport, either at his or her own initiative or at the request of the airport authority owning or managing the airport, may make regulations—

(a) to secure the safety of aircraft, vehicles and persons using the airport,

(b) to prevent danger to the public arising from the use or operation of an airport,

(c) in relation to the safety and security of an airport and aircraft, vehicles and persons using the airport, or

(d) regarding the duties of persons in command of an aircraft which is for the time being on the ground at the airport.

(2) The Minister shall consult with the Irish Aviation Authority before making regulations which in whole or in part relate to subsection (1)(d) or the safety of aircraft.

(3) A person who contravenes a regulation under this section is guilty of an offence and is liable—

(a) on summary conviction, to a fine not exceeding €3,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months or both, or

(b) on conviction on indictment, to a fine not exceeding €250,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 2 years, or both.