Germany’s air-navigation service provider DFS has published two separate VFR Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) creating restricted airspace over major public events. On 21 September it announced ED-R/RMZ/TMZ Bremen, a security cordon that will be activated around the Bürgerweide exhibition grounds from 2 October to 4 October for national Unity Day celebrations attended by the Federal President. The zone imposes transponder and two-way radio requirements on all aircraft—including drones—within a 6-nautical-mile radius up to 3,500 ft. On the same day DFS released ED-R/RMZ/TMZ München Oktoberfest, covering the Theresienwiese fairground until 6 October. The Oktoberfest zone is smaller (3 NM), but commercial drone flights for media or hospitality fly-overs will need explicit permits from the Luftamt Südbayern, and pilots of sightseeing helicopters must file flight plans and maintain continuous contact with Munich Tower. For corporate aviation departments flying VIPs or aerial advertising banners, the restrictions mean route adjustments or slot requests at neighbouring airports Augsburg and Bremen-Neuenland. Logistics firms using drones for last-mile deliveries in Munich’s inner city must suspend operations during the active hours published in AIP SUP 46/26. The notices illustrate Germany’s tightening of low-level airspace management around mass gatherings—a trend that started after the 2015 drone incident at the Bundestag. Mobility planners should expect similar RMZ/TMZ designations for the European Football Championship matches in 2028 and integrate airspace checks into event travel plans. Pilots violating the zones face fines up to €50,000 and potential licence suspension. Companies should therefore brief any charter providers and ensure drone operators register their craft and remote-ID beacons in advance.
Source: DFS Deutsche Flugsicherung
