Barum Czech Rally Zlín 

Strict ban on the use of drones during the Barum Rally!

Today - Martin Bill

The BARUM CZECH RALLY ZLÍN press center has received a number of requests to use unmanned aerial vehicles (drones or UAVs) to capture audiovisual footage of the competition using these devices. We are aware that this is a very widespread trend, which allows for the capture of very attractive footage. However, these shots cannot take priority over safety on the special stages, in the service park, at the ceremonial start and finish of the competition, and at the regrouping control. The organizer has imposed a strict ban on the use of drones of all categories, including FPV and radio-controlled model aircraft, throughout the Barum Rally.

An FIA ERC promoter's transmission helicopter flies at low altitude above each special stage, and a helicopter for sightseeing flights with fans will be operating in the vicinity of Slušovice. Several landing sites for safety helicopters have also been identified along the route. For these and other reasons, the use of drones is very dangerous and undesirable from the organizer's point of view!

Since last year, you will find a new pictogram in the printed official program. It is located on the map of each special stage and is intended to warn that the use of unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones, is prohibited along the route. As organizers of a high-attendance event, we are responding to current legislation and want to ensure the smooth and trouble-free running of the entire competition.

Brief summary According to Act No. 49/1997 Coll., on civil aviation, and Commission Regulation (EU) 2019/947 on rules and procedures for the operation of unmanned aircraft, the following applies:

• It is prohibited to fly over gatherings of people – a gathering is defined as a situation where people cannot quickly disperse (typically spectators along the rally route, in the service park, in spectator areas, and at the start and finish areas).
• Flying in the area of the special stages, spectator zones, service park, ceremonial start and finish is considered high risk and is only possible in a specific category of operation with prior approval from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and with written permission from the event organizer.
• Without the permission of the CAA and the consent of the organizer, drone operation in such areas is illegal.
• Violation of these rules may result in a heavy fine and possible criminal prosecution if the safety of the rally, competing crews, and spectators is endangered.

Media workers and photographers are not exempt from the above rules. If a violation is detected, their accreditation will be immediately revoked and the case will be referred for further investigation. We appeal to all rally fans and media workers to comply with these rules, thereby contributing to the smooth running of the 54th Barum Czech Rally Zlín 2025.