RAF issues advice to holidaymakers on Anglesey who want to fly drones as travel restrictions are eased

Guidance has been issued to holidaymakers on Anglesey who want to fly drones after the “stay local” travel guidance was lifted in Wales.

RAF Valley is seeking to remind visitors of their responsibilities when using remote controlled aircraft close to airfields.

Flight Lieutenant Tom Green, station flight safety officer at RAF Valley said: “Major changes to the law were put in place in 2019 to protect manned aircraft from coming into conflict with drones or other small unmanned or remotely controlled aircraft.

“This included the requirement for unmanned aircraft to fly below 400ft, and to stay more than 50m away from private property and individuals as well as 150m from crowds and built up areas.

“The crucial change is that operators must not fly within the flight restricted zone of any airport or airfield unless you have permission to do so.”

The restriction zones include rectangular extensions from the end of runways measuring 5km x 1km, as well as the airfields Air Traffic Zone (ATZ) which is a circle of up to 2.5nm radius from a point close to the centre of the aerodrome.

Whilst this might sound complicated, the Civil Aviation Authority have produced an interactive map which highlights which areas must be avoided.

This can be found at dronesafe.uk/restrictions. Additionally, a large number of military aircraft operate down to 250ft in North Wales, and operators should be mindful of the presence of these aircraft and ensure they remain well clear at all times.

North Wales has four aerodromes which are covered by the new legislation.

The protected areas around RAF Valley and RAF Mona cover a large amount of airspace over Anglesey, whilst there are also restrictions around the airfields at Caernarfon and Hawarden.

To obtain permission to fly close to RAF Valley or RAF Mona, please call: Air Traffic Control: 01407 762241 Ext 7288