Luxembourg restricts airspace for drones

Annie Spratt, Unsplash
Luxembourg's Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DAC) has announced the creation of a new geographical restricted area for drones - EL-UAS-S19. From 29 July 2025, drone flights in this area are prohibited without prior written permission. To obtain this authorisation, operators must apply at least 10 working days before the proposed flight date.
The zone is limited in height from the ground to 120 metres (AGL - above ground level) and covers a defined area delineated by GPS coordinates. It is located in the south-east of Luxembourg, in an area where increased security measures have previously been observed. Formally, the boundaries of the zone are defined to the nearest second of latitude and longitude.
The reasons for the ban are not publicly stated, but such measures are often related to the protection of strategic facilities, public safety or sensitive events. The introduction of a permanent zone is a rare decision indicating the long-term significance of a location for aviation control authorities.
Persons wishing to obtain a flight authorisation should apply directly to the DAC, strictly observing the formal deadlines. Violation of the airspace regime may result in administrative or criminal consequences.