A British holidaymaker has been fined €200,000 (about £175,000) for unauthorised drone usage in a Canary Island hotspot. The National Police confirmed that a tourist was caught operating a drone during the bustling Virgen del Carmen festival in Puerto de la Cruz on July 15. According to Canarian Weekly, they were not permitted to do this.

The incident occurred amid the popular maritime procession at the event, which was attended by thousands of spectators. Police officers overseeing the event were quick to spot the illicit drone in flight.

The operator of the drone was swiftly traced back to Hotel Las Águilas, situated in the upper part of the town. Upon interrogation, the tourist confessed to lacking a pilot’s licence, insurance, and any awareness of Spanish drone regulations.

The drone was seized, and the case was handed over to Spain’s State Aviation Safety Agency (AESA) for administrative proceedings. As per Spanish and EU legislation, all drone flights in urban areas or over large crowds necessitate prior authorisation, and pilots must be registered, insured, and trained.

Only three drones had received permission to fly at the festival, two operated by the National Police for security surveillance and one for official event coverage. Spanish authorities are cautioning tourists that Spain’s drone laws are stringent and breaches are dealt with severely.

Depending on the gravity of the offence, drone fines can vary.

For tourists intending to operate a drone, even for recreational purposes, it’s mandatory to follow certain rules if the drone weighs more than 250g or is equipped with a camera:

• Register as a drone operator with AESA
• Complete basic online training (open category – free)
• Label your drone with your operator ID
• Have civil liability insurance (strongly advised)
• Check approved flight zones using the ENAIRE Drones app
• Avoid flying in urban areas, over people, or near airports and protected areas, unless specially authorised

Spanish authorities are emphasising to visitors that drones are not mere toys and operating one without adhering to legal requirements can lead to severe legal and safety repercussions, especially during public events.

Those planning a visit to the Canary Islands and intending to fly a drone are strongly recommended to familiarise themselves with the latest regulations and obtain any required permissions well in advance.