St. Lucia Announces Drone Restriction as Carnival Celebrations Come to an End

CASTRIES, St. Lucia – St. Lucia's government on Friday urged the public to strictly observe drone safety regulations, especially near the George F. L. Charles Airport (GFLCA) in the capital, as St. Lucia prepares to bring to an end the 2025 carnival celebrations over the weekend.

In a statement, the Ministry responsible for Civil Aviation reminded that “unauthorized drone use is a serious threat to aviation safety and may result in enforcement action”.

It said to help prevent aircraft incidents or accidents and avoid disruptions to airport operations,  particularly at GFLCA, which lies directly alongside the John Compton Highway, the route used for the Parade of the Bands, the recreational use of drone is “strictly prohibited”.

It said that the restrictions also applies within the designated no-drone zones surrounding Hewanorra International Airport and George F. L. Charles Airport and extend 2.5 miles from each airport and must be respected at all times.

The  authorities said that applications for commercial drone operations within these restricted zones are considered on a case-by-case basis and that for Carnival celebrations that end on Tuesday next week, “only one drone operator endorsed by the Carnival Planning and Management Committee (CPMC), has been authorized to capture aerial footage of the events in Castries”

The government also said that revelers, vendors, and spectators are encouraged to enjoy the festivities responsibly, adding “unauthorized drone activity poses serious safety risks to flight operations and public safety, and can harm St. Lucia’s international aviation reputation”.