Finland’s Transport and Communications Agency (Traficom) published a notice on 5 October approving Mättö Media Oy’s request to operate drones within the EFP50 Kruununhaka prohibited zone between 8 and 9 October. The tightly regulated airspace sits above the presidential palace and key government buildings; unmanned flights are normally banned to protect public safety and privacy. The exemption—valid for two days—requires the production company to deploy geofencing software, maintain line-of-sight control and coordinate with Helsinki Air Traffic Control. Traficom warns that any deviation will trigger immediate revocation and possible fines up to €10,000. Why it matters for mobility: Helsinki hosts a growing number of aerial-survey, logistics-drone and media ventures, but the city’s layered no-fly zones complicate operations, particularly near tourist hotspots and cruise-ship terminals. The new permit shows regulators are willing to allow case-by-case access provided robust risk-mitigation measures are proven. Corporate travel managers planning promotional shoots or infrastructure inspections should file applications at least four weeks in advance and budget for additional insurance. Industry lawyers note that drones over 250 g must also comply with EU open-category rules, including UAS operator registration and pilot competency certificates. Traficom says it will publish anonymised lessons learned from the Kruununhaka flights later this month, potentially paving the way for standardised procedures that could shorten lead times for future commercial projects in Helsinki’s historic core.
Source: Traficom – public notice
