The number of offences committed by drones in the Czech Republic is steadily rising, prompting the Civil Aviation Authority to intensify checks and impose fines. In particular, the airspace above airports and Prague Castle remains a hotspot for illegal drone flights.
The Czech Civil Aviation Authority is investigating an increasing number of offences committed by drones. Last year, the authority recorded 338 reports related to drone operations, the highest number ever. According to a report by ČT24, fines totalling CZK 330,000 were imposed last year. This year, the figure has already reached CZK 150,000 in less than three months. Violations of the ban on flying drones most commonly concern airports or Prague Castle.
“The number of complaints is increasing significantly year on year. For comparison: in 2023, there were a total of 254 complaints; a year earlier, there were 220,” Civil Aviation Authority spokeswoman Jitka Ungerová told the news channel. “For the offences themselves, a total of 28 fines totalling CZK 330,000 were imposed in 2024, with the highest fine being CZK 50,000.” However, fines for violations of the Air Traffic Act can amount to up to CZK 1 million.
This year, the authority has already imposed 15 fines totalling CZK 150,000. According to Ungerová, offenders can also be penalised by confiscation of their drones or given a warning.
Drone operators most frequently violate the airspace above Václav Havel Airport, where strict flying regulations apply. “The most frequent offences are committed in the airport control area, which includes the municipalities of Hostivice, Chýně, Dobrovíz, Zličín, Přední Kopanina, and Divoká Šárka. They also fly in the restricted area of Prague Castle and violate the rules for flying in densely populated areas (e.g. near buildings, roads, or when flying over people).”
New regulations for drone owners have been in force in the Czech Republic since last year. According to these regulations, only the lightest drones or those with a special permit are allowed to fly over built-up areas. The aim is to make the operation of older drones safer. In addition, since last year, all commercially available drones must be labelled with a special registration number. Registration is required if the drone weighs more than 250 grams and is equipped with a camera or other sensor capable of recording personal data.
