Tue, 24 May 2022
The Isle of Man Civil Aviation Administration is reminding locals and visitors not to use drones to film the TT or Billown Circuit practices and races and is warning of potential prosecution and fines for those that infringe a ‘no fly’ zone.
Deputy Director of Civil Aviation, Colin Gill, commented: ‘The airspace above the TT course can get busy with official film and emergency helicopters before, during and after racing or practising takes place. The Billown Circuit is also located within three miles distance of the airport - which already prohibits drones due to the dangers they could pose to an aircraft taking off or landing. There will also be a Red Arrows display in Douglas Bay on 7 June at 19:30 during which any drone flight in the vicinity could cause danger.
‘Drones can also pose a serious distraction to riders. Race marshals are informed to immediately report any drones to race control and the police, which may result in the practice or race being halted.’
A ‘no-fly’ zone is in place from 29 May until the end of 11 June which covers the area within the TT Race Course plus 1,000 metres outside the course during the times when the road closures are in force.
A ’no-fly’ zone is also in place on 7 June for the area within 6 miles of Douglas from 1920 till 2010.
The Billown Circuit is located within the Airport’s existing ’no-fly’ zone for drones.
Breach of the restriction is an offence punishable on conviction by a fine of up to £5,000.
The Isle of Man Civil Aviation Administration is a division of the Department for Enterprise responsible for the safety and security of civil aviation in the Isle of Man.