Legislation Published August 2026
2 statutory instruments were made in August 2026, both of which concerned the regulation of airspace for unmanned aircraft. The Air Navigation (Restriction of Flying) (Llanwonno, Wales) (Emergency) Regulations 2026 established a temporary restricted zone for drones in South Wales. Simultaneously, the Air Navigation (Restriction of Flying) (Dovestones Reservoir, Manchester) (Emergency) (No. 2) (Revocation) Regulations 2026 removed existing flight restrictions over a reservoir in Greater Manchester.
Most significant this month: The Air Navigation (Restriction of Flying) (Llanwonno, Wales) (Emergency) Regulations 2026
Summary
- 3rd Aug 26 Revoked the emergency flight restrictions over Dovestones Reservoir in Manchester with immediate effect. View Transport
- 3rd Aug 26 Established an emergency restricted airspace zone for unmanned aircraft near Llanwonno, Wales, effective 3 August 2026. View Justice Local Government Transport
The Air Navigation (Restriction of Flying) (Dovestones Reservoir, Manchester) (Emergency) (No. 2) (Revocation) Regulations 2026
This instrument removes emergency flight restrictions previously imposed on the airspace surrounding Dovestones Reservoir in Manchester.
It restores the legal right for aircraft and drones to operate in the area by revoking the emergency regulations that had prohibited such activity.
The order applies to all pilots and aircraft operators and took effect at 3.55 p.m. on 3 August 2026.
The Air Navigation (Restriction of Flying) (Llanwonno, Wales) (Emergency) Regulations 2026
The Secretary of State prohibits the flight of unmanned aircraft below 2,600 feet above mean sea level within a specified radius of Llanwonno, Wales.
The order applies to all drone operators, except those acting under the specific direction of the South Wales Police Operational Support Inspector.
These emergency restrictions took effect at 2:11 p.m. on 3 August 2026 to facilitate the response to an unspecified emergency in the area.