Nottingham Goose Fair Takes Flight Safety Seriously: New Drone Restrictions Announced

As the vibrant and historic Nottingham Goose Fair approaches, attendees can look forward to an exciting event filled with rides, games, and delicious treats. However, for drone enthusiasts, it's time to ground those unmanned aircraft. The UK government has just announced new regulations to ensure the safety of this much-anticipated gathering.

What You Need to Know

Starting from 2:00 PM on September 26, 2025, until 11:59 PM on October 5, 2025, a temporary restriction will be in place on flying unmanned aircraft—commonly known as drones—over Nottingham City Centre. This decision has been made to protect the large crowds expected to flock to the fair. Here's a quick breakdown of these new rules:

• Restricted Airspace: No drones are allowed to fly below 800 feet above mean sea level within a 0.4 nautical mile radius centered at coordinates 52°57'58"N 001°09'38"W.
• Exemptions: The only exception is for drones that have received explicit permission from the Nottinghamshire Police Service.

Why the Restrictions?

The Nottinghamshire Police, in collaboration with the Civil Aviation Authority and the Department for Transport, have determined that these restrictions are necessary to maintain public safety during the fair. With thousands of visitors expected, controlling the airspace helps prevent any potential mishaps that could arise from drone activity.

Important Details

• Timing: Note that the times mentioned follow Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), which is one hour behind British Summer Time (BST).
• Enforcement: The restrictions will be communicated through official channels like the Aeronautical Information Circular (AIC) and Notice to Aviation (NOTAM).
• Contact Information: For any queries, Mr. David Ridley from the Civil Aviation Authority's Safety and Airspace Regulation Group is available at 03301 382471.

Conclusion

As this beloved fair returns, these measures are a reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety amidst the festivities. While drones can capture stunning aerial views, the focus this year is on ensuring a secure environment for all fairgoers. So, if you're planning to bring a drone to the fair, make sure to check with the Nottinghamshire Police Service for the necessary permissions or leave it at home and enjoy the fair from the ground up!