Drone Ban Over Notting Hill Carnival: What You Need to Know

As the vibrant and much-anticipated Notting Hill Carnival approaches, the UK government has introduced new measures to ensure the safety of attendees. Here's what you need to know about the latest drone restrictions in place for the event.

When and Where?

Starting at 6:00 AM on August 24th and running through 10:00 PM on August 25th, 2025, a drone ban will be in effect over Notting Hill, London. The restricted airspace forms a circle with a radius of 1.5 nautical miles, centered at the coordinates 51°31'03"N 000°12'37"W.

Why the Ban?

With large crowds expected to gather for the Notting Hill Carnival, the Secretary of State for Transport, alongside the Metropolitan Police Service and the Civil Aviation Authority, has deemed it necessary to restrict drone flights. This decision aims to enhance public safety during the festivities.

Exceptions to the Rule

The ban is comprehensive but not absolute. Unmanned aircraft may still fly within the restricted area if:

• They have received explicit permission from the Metropolitan Police Service.
• They are already prohibited from flying by existing regulations, such as those covering Hyde Park or prisons and young offender institutions in England and Wales.

Important Timing Details

The regulation times are set in Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), which is one hour behind British Summer Time (BST). So, locals should adjust their clocks accordingly to avoid any confusion.

How to Stay Informed

For those needing more detailed guidance or permissions, the Metropolitan Police Service is available for contact as specified in the official communication channels. Furthermore, updates and additional information will be made available through Aeronautical Information Circulars (AIC) and Notices to Aviation (NOTAM).

Should you have further questions or require clarification, Mr. David Ridley, Airspace Regulator at the Civil Aviation Authority, is the point of contact. He can be reached at 03301 382471.

By adhering to these regulations, everyone can contribute to a safe and enjoyable Notting Hill Carnival experience. Let's keep the skies clear and the spirit high!