Drone flying restrictions in place throughout TT fortnight

Residents and visitors are reminded not to use drones to film the TT or Billown Circuit practices and races over the course of the TT, with potential prosecution and fines for those that infringe a ‘no drone zone’.

Individuals are asked to observe the following drone “no-fly” zones which will be in place in 2025 and apply to all drones, regardless of their size and weight:

• For the TT fortnight, from 26 May until the end of 8 June: Drones must not be flown within any of the airspace bounded by an area approximately 1,000 metres outside the course while the roads are closed for practice/qualifying or race sessions (see map below). The restrictions take effect from one hour before the TT Course closure time of each day until the final road opening.
• For the Red Arrows display on 5 June from 19:20 until 20:10 (local time): Drones must not be flown over or within six miles of Douglas.

The Billown Circuit is located within the Airport’s existing “no-fly” zone for drones.

Deputy Director of Civil Aviation, Colin Gill, commented: ‘The airspace above the TT course is used by emergency and filming helicopters before, during and after racing and practising taking place. The Billown Circuit is also located within the five-kilometre airspace restriction for the Isle of Man Airport, within which drones should not be flown due to the dangers they could pose to an aircraft taking off or landing at the airport.

‘There will also be a Red Arrows display in Douglas Bay on 5 June at 19:30, during which any drone flight in the vicinity could cause danger.’

He added: ‘Drones can also pose a serious distraction to riders. Marshals are informed to immediately report any drones to race control and the police, which may result in the practice or race being halted.

‘Whilst the Isle of Man’s racing festivals are a fantastic display, we request that all drone operators respect the “no-fly” zones while they are in place to ensure the safety of participants and that the events remain a safe and enjoyable spectacle of racing.’

Permission has been given for Isle of Man Constabulary and the event’s official media partners to operate drones inside the restriction following careful coordination with race control and the helicopter operators.

Breach of the restriction is an offence punishable on conviction by a fine of up to £10,000.