Ban on drone flights in eastern Belgium
Jason Mavrommatis, Unsplash
Between 16:00 on 31 May and 6:00 on 1 June 2025, a temporary ban on the use of drones within the area code "EL-UAS-TEVT-2025-05" comes into force in the eastern part of Belgium. The ban applies to all drone flights from the ground up to a height of 120 metres and may affect residents in western Luxembourg.
The defined coordinates delineate a fairly precise geometric shape covering a rural and possibly sparsely populated area in the province of Liège. This suggests that either an important operation or an event requiring airspace restrictions for civilian users is expected in the region.
Exceptions to the prohibition apply only to transactions of public importance. The list includes:
- military, police and customs missions,
- traffic control and harassment,
- search and rescue efforts,
- medical aviation,
- evacuation,
- firefighting.
Thus, the area will be closed to amateur or commercial drones, including those used for filming or delivery.
Although the official document does not disclose the reasons for the ban, such temporary restrictions are often imposed during important events, exercises, visits of dignitaries or due to a heightened threat level. In European practice, such zones are created to ensure security and coordination between civil and state structures.
It's also worth noting that a clear and pre-announced restriction is a sign of a mature airspace management system that seeks to minimise risks without completely paralysing drone activity.
