Temporary airspace restrictions for COP26 climate conference
Temporary airspace restrictions will be in place across central Scotland as part of security measures to protect COP26.
The Civil Aviation Authority and Police Scotland have confirmed that temporary airspace restrictions will be in place across East and Central Scotland from 23:59 on 30 October to 23:59 on 14 November to help protect the safety of the public, people attending the COP26 event and, the aviation community.
Restrictions will cover much of Central Scotland including areas of Greater Glasgow, North Ayrshire, South Ayrshire, North Lanarkshire, South Lanarkshire, East Dunbartonshire, West Dunbartonshire, Argyll and Bute, East Renfrewshire, Renfrewshire, Dumfries and Galloway, Stirling, Edinburgh the Lothians and Fife.
Restrictions apply to all aircraft, including hot air balloons and drones. Large aircraft, scheduled to carry passengers or freight will be permitted to fly as normal.
It is the responsibility of all pilots, including drone pilots, to check the restrictions in their area. If pilots are planning to fly to somewhere within the restricted area, they need prior permission from the airfield. In addition, pilots will need to seek permission from Police Scotland and Air Traffic Control. Requests to Police Scotland must be made at least 24 hours before the proposed flight by emailing OSDCOP26Aviation@scotland.pnn.police.uk.
Inspector Graeme Rankin from Police Scotland's Aviation Safety and Security Unit said: “Temporary airspace restrictions have been put in place to ensure the safety of aviators, the public and World Leaders, Heads of State and delegates attending the COP26 conference. Police Scotland have a responsibility to take measures to protect the aviating and general public who stay in, work in, visit or fly over Scotland.
“Although there is no specific threat related to the event, we will be prepared for any eventuality.
“Those looking to fly in restricted airspace between 30 October and 13 November must seek permission from Police Scotland.
“Ignoring the restrictions, or flying in an irresponsible manner anywhere constitutes a number of offences and may put the safety of aviators and others at risk.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the aviation community, including airports and air traffic controllers for their understanding and support with the preparation of the restriction and have confidence that the majority of aviators will fly safely and responsibly. Police Scotland will be supported by partner agencies to ensure those breaching the legislation are prosecuted."
If you have any concerns about low flying aircraft or drone use in restricted airspace, please phone 999 immediately. If there are 'No Drone Zone' signs nearby, please provide the unique number on the sign as this will help Police to identify the area.
Further details on airspace restrictions for COP26 will be published at a later date as a Notice to Airmen on the National Air Traffic Services Aeronautical Information Service (NATS) website. Aviators should check the NATS website or Drone Assist app prior to any flight to check the restrictions in their area.
