Drone Rules for HELIPUERTO

The Helipuerto de El Grao de Castellón primarily functions as an emergency medical and potentially maritime support facility, managed by the Conselleria de Sanidad Universal y Salud Pública de la Comunitat Valenciana and integrated into the 112 Comunitat Valenciana emergency network, possibly in coordination with the Port Authority of Castellón.

Key Requirements & Restrictions

• Restrictions: A ground-up (0m AGL) flight prohibition is enforced within a 2.5km safety radius of the helipad, as mandated by RD 517/2024. Strict avoidance of all flight paths during active medical helicopter (HEMS) and potential maritime SAR operations is required. Operators must verify for any interaction with the Castellón Airport (LECS) airspace, which may necessitate AESA authorization and ENAIRE coordination.
• Permission Steps: An 'Acuerdo de Coordinación Operativa' must be obtained from the Conselleria de Sanidad Universal y Salud Pública de la Comunitat Valenciana and the heliport's operational management. Coordination with 112 Comunitat Valenciana is essential for situational awareness. If within controlled or restricted airspace, AESA authorization and ENAIRE NOTAM/coordination are mandatory.
• Requirements: Any ground-based drone activities require specific land-use permits from the Ayuntamiento de Castellón de la Plana. Adherence to operational safety protocols for a port and urban environment is crucial.
• Important Notes: The coastal and port environment may include areas designated as ZEPA or Natura 2000 for bird protection in the broader vicinity, requiring careful consideration for flight planning. Operations must not interfere with critical emergency or port communications. No specific environmental protections apply at the immediate helipad site.
• Physical Hazards: Frequent and often unscheduled HEMS and potential maritime SAR helicopter movements. Presence of port infrastructure such as cranes, masts, and vessels. Exposure to strong and unpredictable coastal winds and sea breezes.

Sources & Verification

• ENAIRE Drones Map (Aeronautical Servitudes Registry).
• Conselleria de Sanidad Universal y Salud Pública de la Comunitat Valenciana / 112 Comunitat Valenciana.
• Ayuntamiento de Castellón de la Plana Urban Planning Department.