## UK Tourists Cautioned as Holidaymaker Faces Hefty €200,000 Fine for Breaching Spanish Drone Regulations
British travellers to Spain are being warned to familiarise themselves with local laws after a tourist in Tenerife incurred a potential fine of up to €200,000 for violating strict drone regulations. The incident, which unfolded during the Virgen del Carmen festival in Puerto de la Cruz on 15 July, has highlighted the importance of understanding foreign rules and regulations—especially when it comes to drone usage.
According to reports from the Canarian Weekly, the individual was apprehended by Spanish National Police after flying a drone over the crowded maritime procession, which attracted thousands of festival-goers. The event, a celebrated cultural fixture in the Canary Islands, was under close surveillance, with security being a principal concern due to the large turnout.
Authorities quickly observed the unauthorised device in the sky and traced its operator to Hotel Las Águilas, perched above the town. Upon questioning, the tourist reportedly admitted to flying without a valid drone pilot licence, lacking mandatory insurance, and being unfamiliar with the detailed Spanish and EU regulations governing drone flights.
With the drone seized, the case has since been referred to Spain’s State Aviation Safety Agency (AESA), which will determine any administrative penalties. Under Spanish and wider European Union legislation, drones may only be operated over cities or populated gatherings if advance authorisation has been granted. Pilots must also be registered, carry appropriate insurance, and complete compulsory training.
Official sources reported that only three drones had received approval to fly during this year’s festival: two were managed by the National Police for security purposes and one by event organisers to document the proceedings. The unauthorised drone flight, therefore, represented a serious breach of Spain’s aviation laws.
Spanish officials have used the incident as an opportunity to issue a strong reminder to foreign visitors about the severity with which drone violations are dealt. Punishments are tiered based on the offence, with fines ranging from €60 for minor missteps, such as failing to produce proof of insurance, to a staggering €225,000 for more serious violations which could compromise public safety or interfere with controlled airspace.
For tourists planning to bring drones to Spain, particularly those weighing more than 250g or fitted with a camera, there is a clear checklist of requirements: registration as a drone operator with AESA is mandatory, as is completion of basic online training and the clear labelling of the drone with an operator ID. Obtaining civil liability insurance is strongly recommended, and operators must verify approved flight zones through the ENAIRE Drones app.
Officials are also keen to stress that recreational drone flights are generally forbidden in cities, over crowds, in the vicinity of airports, or near protected sites unless explicit permission has been obtained—a stipulation often overlooked by foreign visitors. These rules are designed to minimise risks to both public safety and aviation activity, and their breach can lead to life-changing penalties.
Authorities in Spain hope that the high-profile case will serve as a wake-up call for British and other international tourists, emphasising that drones should never be treated as toys. Anyone planning to visit the Canary Islands or the Spanish mainland and wishing to bring a drone is advised to carefully research current regulations, begin the registration process before travel, and ensure all documentation is in order.
As Spain continues to attract millions of British holidaymakers every year, the country’s aviation regulators are eager to maintain both public safety and enjoyment for all. Staying informed and compliant with local laws is essential for a trouble-free trip, especially as technological pastimes like drone piloting grow ever more popular among globetrotting tourists.