Drone Rules for Base Militar Álvarez de Sotomayor

The Base Militar Álvarez de Sotomayor is a major military installation managed by the Ejército de Tierra (Spanish Army), specifically housing the Brigada de la Legión 'Rey Alfonso XIII'. This facility includes helipads and extensive areas for military maneuvers and training, necessitating stringent airspace and ground control.

Key Requirements & Restrictions

• Restrictions: Operations within the 8 km safety radius around the Base Militar Álvarez de Sotomayor are strictly prohibited from 0m AGL without an 'Acuerdo de Coordinación Operativa' as per Real Decreto 517/2024. Furthermore, this base is located within the Controlled Airspace (CTR) of Almería Airport (LEAM), requiring explicit air traffic control authorization from ENAIRE and specific coordination with military air traffic control for any drone activity. Military Restricted Areas (R) or Prohibited Areas (P) may also be active within or adjacent to the base, further limiting access.
• Permission Steps: For any operation, direct coordination with the Base Militar Álvarez de Sotomayor (Ejército de Tierra) is mandatory. Additionally, prior authorization from ENAIRE is essential for operations within the controlled airspace.
• Requirements: Obtain property access permission from the military authorities of the Base Militar Álvarez de Sotomayor. Local ground-use permits from the Ayuntamiento de Viator may also be required for operations outside the base perimeter but within its influence zone.
• Important Notes: Absolute priority must be given to military operations, including ground vehicle movements, helicopter flights, and training exercises, which may involve live fire. Drone interference with military assets poses extreme safety risks and is subject to severe legal penalties. This is a sensitive security area; unauthorized drone activity could be interpreted as a direct security threat. Always check for active NOTAMs and military airspace restrictions.
• Physical Hazards: Frequent movements of military ground vehicles and helicopters; potential for sudden and unannounced military operations and training exercises (including live fire); presence of highly specialized military equipment and personnel; potential for electromagnetic interference with military communication and navigation systems; active security patrols.

Sources & Verification

• ENAIRE Drones Map (Aeronautical Servitudes Registry).
• Ministerio de Defensa (Ejército de Tierra) official regulations and NOTAMs.
• Real Decreto 517/2024 (General UAS/RPAS regulations in Spain).
• Ayuntamiento de Viator local regulations.