Remotely piloted aircraft (RPAs), also known as unmanned aerial vehicles or drones are growing in popularity for both recreational and commercial use, particularly for filming and photography.
These craft can pose potential danger to visitors if they crash. There are also environmental concerns relating to visual and noise impacts that may affect wildlife. These craft may detract from other visitors’ experiences, places of cultural significance as well as impact on visitor privacy. Model aircraft, rockets and RPAs are considered aircraft under the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998.
Under regulation 65 of the Conservation and Land Management Regulations 2002 (CALM Regulations), launching, landing or making a touch down of such aircraft, except in an emergency on any estate belonging to the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions – Parks and Wildlife Service is only allowed if lawful authority (written permission) has been issued for a specific purpose.
MRBTA operates by the same regulations within the caves and lighthouse sites under our management. As such, members of the public are not allowed to operate drones at any of our attractions without prior written permission being granted.
Requests to fly drones at any of our sites must be made in writing to Mark Delane, Assets and Environment Manager at [email protected]