No Drones Allowed: New Flight Restrictions for Hay-on-Wyes Festival

Attention all drone enthusiasts and operators! As the much-anticipated Hay Festival 2025 approaches, the UK government has rolled out new flight restrictions aimed at ensuring public safety during this large gathering in Hay-on-Wye, Powys.

What's Happening and Why?

The Secretary of State for Transport has issued a regulation to restrict the flying of unmanned aircraft, commonly referred to as drones, within a specific area and timeframe. This decision comes in response to safety and security concerns during the festival, where thousands are expected to attend.

When and Where?

• Date: 1st June 2025
• Time: 0800 to 2200 hours (UTC) — Remember, this is one hour behind British Summer Time (BST)
• Restricted Area: A 1 nautical mile radius centered at coordinates 520403N 0030817W, which covers the festival site.

Who Can Fly?

Not all is lost for drone operators. Exceptions to these restrictions include:

• Drones flying with explicit permission from the Dyfed-Powys Police Airspace Coordinator.
• Drones operated by or on behalf of a Police Air Support Unit.

Need Permission?

If you believe your drone operation is crucial and aligns with the exceptions, you can seek permission:

• Contact: Dyfed-Powys Police Airspace Coordinator
• Phone: 101
• Email: DroneExemptions@dyfed-powys.police.uk

Why the Restrictions?

The Civil Aviation Authority, in conjunction with the Department for Transport and local police, has endorsed these restrictions to maintain public safety and security during the festival. With large crowds expected, the unregulated use of drones could pose significant risks.

Stay Informed

Detailed information about these regulations will be disseminated through a Briefing Sheet and Notice to Aviation (NOTAM). For any regulatory concerns or questions, Mr. David Ridley from the Civil Aviation Authority can be contacted at 03301 382471.

In summary, if you're planning to fly a drone near Hay-on-Wye during the festival, make sure you’re aware of these restrictions to avoid legal trouble and help keep the event safe for everyone.