Fines ranging from €1,000 to €225,000 for 3 drone operators in Marbella

The Spanish National Police Aerial unit in Malaga has issued an stern warning following the interception of three unauthorised drones in Marbella, flying over Ironman 70.3 World Championships course earlier in November. The owners of which now face fines ranging from €1,000 to €225,000 and permanent confiscation of their aircraft.

The drones were brought down by anti-drone system deployed in the context of security operations for the triathlon international event. According to Nacional Police reports, the devices operated in close proximity to race routes without the aeronautical authorization or coordination required by the Spanish Aviation Safety and Security Agency.

Drone safety – big fines

“Our top priority is to make sure that large public events are safe,” spokesman The Malaga Provincial Police Headquarters stated. The Malaga Provincial Police Headquarters said:

Air Safety Law 21/2003 has been used to send AESA fine proposals. These penalties are only imposed for very serious violations, especially when the public’s safety is at risk.

The police say drones under 250 grams are still subject to regulation, even if they are marketed as toys. Owners do not need a pilot’s certificate, but they must register their drones as operators and check restricted airspace using the ENAIRE Drones appIn order to comply with any flight restrictions, you must adhere to them. In 2024, 90% of drone-related penalties in Andalusia’s eastern region will involve these lightweight models.

Unauthorised drone sightings across the country have led to temporary airspace closures at five Spanish airports this year. This is part of an ongoing trend of drones posing a threat to commercial air traffic in Europe.

Advice for drone enthusiasts on the Costa del Sol

Follow these simple rules if you want to fly drones in Malaga.

1. Register for free to become an operator AESA website (seguridadaerea.gob.es) and display your operator number on every drone with a camera or weighing over 250 g – even the popular DJI Mini series.
2. Open the baggage compartment before each flight. ENAIRE Drones app Check the map in real time on our website. Large parts of the Costa del Sol (especially near Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport, heliports, and urban Marbella) are permanently restricted or require prior coordination.
3. Never fly over crowds or events such as sporting events, beach bathers, or sporting activities. At least 8 km from an airport or helipad, and at a height of less than 120 metres.
4. Take the free online A1/A3 exam on the AESA platform (takes about 40 minutes) – it’s mandatory for most drones and gives you peace of mind.
5. Buy third-party liability insurance (from around €30–60 per year) – it’s compulsory for almost all outdoor flights.
6. During major events (Starlite Festivals, Ironman, Grand Prixs, etc.), expect increased surveillance and total no-fly zones enforced by police anti-drone teams.Anti-drone police teams will enforce total no-fly areas and increase surveillance during major events (Starlite Festival, Ironman, Grand Prix).

By flying responsibly, you keep the skies open to everyone. One moment of carelessness near a crowded beach or event can cost you the drone and tens – or hundreds – of thousands of euros. If you are unsure, do not launch.