Drone ban in force at Billown Course

Pre-TT Classic to get underway there tomorrow (22 May)

A ban will be in force on the use of drones around the Billown Course during race meetings in 2026.

The rules are in place for this weekend's Pre-TT Classic Road Races from tomorrow until Sunday (22-24 May) as well as the Southern 100 Road Races from 6-9 July.

Event organisers, the Southern 100 Club, says the restrictions cover 'airspace within and in the vicinity of the Billown Course' and will come into effect 'one hour before the first road closure each day until the final road opening.'

Anyone caught breaching the restrictions could face a fine of up to £10,000.

Separately, permission has been granted for the Isle of Man Constabulary and the event's media partners to operate drones in the restricted areas following co-ordination with race control, helicopter operators and the Civil Aviation Administration.

Deputy Director of Civil Aviation, Colin Gill, says: "The airspace above and adjacent to the Billown Course is restricted to all drones during motorcycle events.

"Drones can pose a serious distraction to riders. Marshals are instructed to report any drone sightings immediately to race control and the police, which may result in practice or racing being stopped."