Civil aviation authorities have clarified regulations over the use of drones near the TT course.

They say that contrary to recent reports that drones can be operated as long as they are not flown closer than 50 metres to the circuit, drones cannot be operated at all in TT restricted airspace.

For the duration of TT practices and racing, the restrictions apply vertically from sea level up to 3,000 feet, which is 1,000 feet above the summit of Snaefell, and laterally for the entire area inside the TT circuit and for 1,000 metres outside the circuit.

The Civil Aviation Administration states: 'For safety reasons, the TT Restricted Airspace is a ‘no-fly zone’ for all aircraft apart from the four helicopters that are specifically given permission to operate for medical, emergency and filming purposes.

'Drones are classified as aircraft by The Air Navigation (Isle of Man) Order 2015 and are prohibited from operating during TT Practice/Racing within the TT Restricted Airspace as defined above.'

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