A Pre-Flight Information Bulletin issued on 28 July by Fintraffic AIS warns pilots of two high-powered laser lightshows in Espoo, west of Helsinki, coinciding with the Flow Festival warm-up concerts. NOTAMs A3900/26 and A3902/26 establish hazard sectors up to 170 ft AMSL and 354 ft AMSL respectively, with potential flash-blindness extending several nautical miles. In addition, Temporary Restricted Area EFR1775 will be active from 31 July 09:00 to 1 August 23:59 local time, prohibiting all flights within a 0.5 km radius of the site unless prior coordination is obtained. While the vertical limits are low, helicopter transfers between Helsinki-Vantaa (EFHK) and the archipelago, as well as uncrewed aerial-vehicle (UAV) deliveries trialled by several logistics start-ups, routinely operate in this envelope. Operators have been advised to file alternate routings via the coast or to climb above 500 ft AGL when transiting the Espoo shoreline after 18:00. The restrictions come at a time of peak summer tourism and coincide with an influx of corporate guests for tech conferences in Helsinki. Event planners using drone filming or VIP helicopter charters should contact Helsinki Radar on 119.100 MHz for real-time clearance. Failure to comply can trigger fines under Finland’s Air Navigation Act and invalidate insurance coverage if laser damage occurs. Mobility managers should brief assignees arriving on late-evening flights about possible scenic-route taxi delays, as road closures around the concert venues are expected. Cargo operators using UAVs for medical deliveries from Meilahti Hospital to Espoo clinics have announced night-time suspensions until 2 August.
