Racing fans warned about the dangers of flying drones during the Isle of Man's TT festival

Racing fans have been warned about the dangers of flying drones during the Isle of Man’s TT festival.

The Isle of Man Civil Aviation Administration (CAA) said it was illegal to fly one within 1000m (3280ft) of the Mountain course during practice and race sessions.

Anyone caught doing so could face prosecution and fines up to £10,000.

Colin Gill from the CAA said the no-fly zones were in place to “ensure the safety” of the riders.

Any drones flown illegally from 29 May to 11 June will be reported to police by marshals and could result in races being halted, as they could “pose a serious distraction” to participants, he added.

The CCA said the restrictions were in place as the airspace over the Mountain course was needed for emergency and filming helicopters.

1 Like

Got a link to the source of this press release for us please @JetRex mate?

From the IoM Gov website…

1 Like

Thanks @HantsFlyer :smiley:

I saw a vid the other day where the camera chopper couldn’t keep up with Guy Martin … so no chance for a drone. :rofl:

1 Like

An expensive holiday for someone. £3,000 fine and held in custody until the fine is paid. Drone, memory card & battery to be destroyed.

The air-med helicopters attend in the event of a racing accident, so can come in quickly, and land in unusual places, as well as a relatively low flying helicopter filming the racing, so this can be busy airspace.

His defence advocate said; "“How many people would go on holiday and look at the laws of the land for where they are going? It’s a preposterous suggestion.” Well, I’d suggest anyone who flies a drone should know to check airspace restrictions in a foreign country and understand that laws differ?

If you’re going to go to someone elses country, at least try and learn some of the laws. An old schoolfriend got arrested, then deported from Kyrgyzstan, a few years ago for insulting the national dish. He compared it to a horses penis, he was facing 5 years in prison for inciting ethnic violence. I know that’s a bit extreme but hey, simple shit can get you killed in some countries so it’s definitely worth having a wee look before you arrive.

1 Like

The words When, In and Rome, seem to come to mind :wink::wink:

Police with a sense of humour

Man who flew drone near the Isle of Man TT course spent night in the cells | iomtoday.co.im

They fined him £3,000 and ordered him to pay £125 costs immediately or face 180 days in jail.

The drone equipment was also ordered forfeited and destroyed.!

At the TT races

1 Like