Tenby declared 'no drone zone' for Ironman Wales event once again

Dyfed-Powys Police has confirmed that parts of Tenby will be a ‘no drone zone’ for this weekend’s Ironman Wales event.

A temporary ‘flight restriction zone’, specifically affecting drones, will be imposed above Tenby as part of the policing operation during the Ironman Wales sporting event again this weekend.

It means it will be an offence for any unmanned aircraft to fly below 2,000 ft above sea level in the designated area, without the explicit permission of Dyfed-Powys Police.

Dyfed-Powys Police warning notices have appeared in the vicinity of North Beach, where the swim start takes place.

The ‘airspace restriction’ will begin from 5am on Saturday, September 12 until 1am Monday, September 14.

It means that any drone user flying inside the Restricted Airspace that have not been granted permission, will be committing an offence and could be prosecuted as well as having their equipment seized and confiscated.

A spokesperson for the police stated: “To confirm, the temporary restriction is in relation to the Ironman weekend, and the reason for the implementation is to ensure public safety at the event, with airspace restrictions being part of those measures.”

The restrictions were introduced at last year’s event, the first time since Ironman Wales first came to Tenby in 2011.

A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesperson said: “Heading to Tenby for the Ironman? We are looking forward to seeing all the competitors and supporters there for a brilliant day.

“A quick reminder for drone pilots that there is a temporary flight restriction zone that will be active for the event. Unauthorised flights in the area won’t be permitted.

“Why is this in place? We’re expecting large crowds in Tenby, so keeping the skies clear helps to ensure that event teams can run the day safely, alongside emergency services.

“The restriction will be in place from 5am on Saturday (12/9) until 1am on Monday (14/9).

“During that time, it will be an offence for any unmanned aircraft to be flown below 1,400ft above sea level without permission. So please leave your drones at home on this occasion,” they added.

For the 2026 triathlon, competitors will assemble on Tenby’s North Beach at 7am on Sunday (September 13); with the male pro entrants entering the sea at 7.20am; and the female pro entrants at 7.25am. The rolling start for the various age groups will commence at 7.30am.

Thousands of entrants and spectators will descend upon Tenby once again and its surrounding areas for the sporting event.

Following the cycling and marathon legs, the finishing line will once again be along The Esplanade, overlooking Tenby’s South Beach.

Teh Ironkids event will take place in the seaside town on the Saturday.