Two drones intercepted near Tenerife South Airport
Authorities at Tenerife South Airport have intercepted two drones being flown illegally in controlled airspace close to one of the Canary Islands’ busiest airports.
Agents from the Guardia Civil, working with the Pegaso aerial security unit, reported two men, one from the UK and the other from Barcelona, after they were caught operating drones near the Bay of El Médano. The area lies within tightly restricted airspace due to its proximity to the airport, and neither pilot had the required authorisation, registration, or communication with air traffic control.
Officers say the men were not registered with the Spanish Aviation Safety Agency (AESA) and had not requested approval to fly in a zone where drone activity is heavily regulated. The drones were also flying without the mandatory operator identification numbers, and the pilots allegedly ignored several operational requirements outlined in EU and Spanish air safety legislation.
Authorities further highlighted that the drones were flown over the protected Montaña Roja Special Nature Reserve, where aerial activity requires special environmental approval.
The reports have been filed with AESA, the Tenerife Cabildo, and the Government Subdelegation in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Each of the infringements carries a potential fine ranging from €60 up to an astonishing €225,000, depending on severity.
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