Preliminary warning for travelers: Remember to study drone regulations to avoid a costly fine of US$230,000
In a stark reminder to drone enthusiasts, a British traveler recently faced a hefty fine of €200,000 ($233,000 USD, £174,000, or AU$359,000) for flying a camera drone at the Virgen del Carmen festival in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife, without checking the local laws first.
The incident occurred during the popular festival, where only the festival's own drone and two National Police drones were authorised to fly for security operations. The traveler's drone was spotted by police over the festival and traced back to a four-star hotel, Hotel Las Aguilas.
James Artaius, head of Digital Camera World with 25 years of journalism experience, commented on the incident. Artaius, who has worked in the photography industry since 2014, has extensive knowledge of cameras from brands like Olympus, Canon, and Hasselblad. He also has a particular interest in instant cameras.
Artaius emphasised the importance of checking drone legislation in the country you're visiting, even for recreational use. Under European Union rules, anyone flying a drone must register as an operator, receive basic online training, and have civil liability insurance. They should also label their drone with their registration ID and use the ENAIRE Drones app to check real-time flight permissions and restricted zones.
In addition, anyone planning to fly a drone in Spanish airspace, including Tenerife, must register as a drone operator on the AESA (State Aviation Safety Agency) portal, complete basic online training, clearly label their drone with their registration ID, obtain civil liability insurance, and inform the Ministry of the Interior at least five days in advance for any flights over urban or crowded areas, particularly during large festivals or events.
Failure to comply with these regulations is considered a serious safety risk due to the potential for accidents or panic in crowded areas, and there is zero tolerance for ignorance of the law by visitors. Ignoring these regulations can lead to confiscation of the drone, huge fines, and legal penalties.
This incident serves as a reminder to anyone planning to fly a drone in Spanish airspace and a broader wake-up call to travelers with drones visiting other countries. It's crucial to familiarise yourself with the local drone laws before taking off.
[1] AESA (State Aviation Safety Agency) regulations for drone use in Spain [2] European Union drone regulations [4] ENAIRE Drones app for real-time flight permissions and restricted zones [5] Ministry of the Interior regulations for drone flights over urban or crowded areas in Spain
- The British traveler was fined €200,000 for using his drone, lacking knowledge of the local laws at the Virgen del Carmen festival in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife.
- As a seasoned journalist with expertise in photography and instant cameras, James Artaius highlighted the importance of checking drone legislation in the country one is visiting, even for recreational use.
- In Spain, any individual flying a drone must adhere to AESA regulations, including registering as a drone operator, obtaining civil liability insurance, and labeling their drone with the registration ID.
- Ignoring the requirements set by the Ministry of the Interior within Spain could lead to severe consequences such as confiscation, hefty fines, and legal penalties for drone flights over urban or crowded areas, particularly during large festivals or events.
- Implementing the ENAIRE Drones app is recommended for checking real-time flight permissions and restricted zones in Spain to avoid legal complications when operating a drone in the country.
