TT Festival: Drones 'no-fly zone' for racing extended

The Isle of Man Civil Aviation Administration said the only exception to the No Fly Zone rule are the four helicopters used to film the TT and to attend medical emergencies

Any use of drones near the TT circuit this summer will be treated as a breach of the Isle of Man's strict "no fly zone", Civil Aviation has said.

A recent police warning said it was illegal to fly one within 50m of the Mountain course during racing.

But a government spokesman said this information was "incorrect".

The ban actually applies up to 3,000ft (1,000 ft above Snaefell Mountain) in altitude and laterally across the whole of the TT Circuit and 1,000m beyond.

The spokesman added: "For safety reasons, the TT Restricted Airspace is a 'no-fly zone' for all aircraft apart from the four helicopters that are specifically given permission to operate for medical, emergency and filming purposes".

Drones 'destroyed'

He added that during racing, between 30 May and 12 June, TT airspace is open only to these helicopters.

Police said anyone found using the equipment will face a fine of up to £2,500 and could have their drone seized or destroyed.

Last year more than 40,000 motor racing fans people attended the festival where riders reach speeds of up to 200mph on closed roads.