Media

Dublin, 31 July 2026: The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA), in cooperation with An Garda Síochána, has successfully prosecuted a drone pilot for a number of offences over a period of two years from 2024 to 2025.
 
The defendant pleaded guilty in Naas District Court to operating a drone without holding a UAS Operator Registration, flying beyond the altitude limit in a UAS Restricted Zone near Glasnevin, and operating Beyond Visual Line of Sight. The court ordered the defendant to make a charitable contribution or face a subsequent fine of €300 per violation.
 
The IAA’s Inspector and investigator on the case, David Hansell commented on the need to ensure that public safety is maintained through the correct use of drones: 
 
“As Ireland’s Civil Aviation Regulator, the safety of the public is our number one priority. Registration, altitude limits, and line of sight obligations aren't bureaucratic hurdles – they're the basic safeguards that keep our skies safe and accessible for everyone. This prosecution reflects the IAA's ongoing commitment to the safety of the general public and the obligation for operators to comply with the regulations. Fly Smart, Fly Safe!”
 
This prosecution has taken place against the backdrop of increased drone use in Ireland, which is why the IAA has today launched its national Fly Smart, Fly Safe campaign. The campaign aims to:

• ensure people who own drones register themselves as operators – it’s the law;
• remind operators to fly safely and know the rules;
• encourage the public to report unsafe use of drones, and be part of the solution;
• and, ensure that people’s privacy is respected in their homes and in public places.

Registration as a UAS Operator is a legal requirement in Ireland and across the EU, where the operator is flying a drone that is over 250gr in weight or carries a camera. This is requirement is needed to ensure that drone pilots operate safely in our skies. Additionally, training is required to fly a drone safely. Flying beyond visual line-of-sight and above prescribed altitude limits without the appropriate training or safety mitigations has the potential to endanger manned aircraft in flight and present risk to people on the ground as well.
 
Flying a drone makes you a pilot and comes with responsibilities. Pilots should be aware or the regulations and airspace restrictions before they get airborne. Failure to operate your drone safely can put people at risk and may lead to prosecution.
 
Fly Smart, Fly Safe campaign video: https://youtu.be/wTVLkGwdBw4
For more information visit: iaa.ie/drones
The public may report unsafe activity to: iaa.ie/dronealert
 
***ENDS***
For more information, email media@iaa.ie