The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has released a statement concerning an upcoming advertising drone show featuring a prominent sports footwear and apparel brand, set against the backdrop of the Acropolis.
The statement indicates that “licenses have been granted to DRNS Show Experience for the organization of a drone show on May 15, 2025, at Zappeion Hall, on behalf of Essence Mediacom and Adidas Hellas, as part of a promotional event. These licenses pertain to the operation and use of drones and have been issued under the current legal and regulatory framework after a thorough risk assessment.”
“We confirm that the company has adhered to all safety conditions mandated by European legislation and the guidelines of the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The drones operated exclusively in a controlled area, with public access prohibited and safety distances, as outlined in the approved operational plan, strictly maintained,” the statement emphasized.
The statement also noted that “based on available photographic evidence from both fixed and mobile recording devices, it is confirmed that the activities of the SSEAs were confined to the designated flight area, clearly outlined over Zappeion Park, as permitted.”
Full Statement:
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) announces that licenses have been granted to DRNS Show Experience for a drone show on May 15, 2025, at Zappeion Hall on behalf of Essence Mediacom and Adidas Hellas as part of a marketing initiative. These licenses relate to the operation and use of drones, issued in accordance with the current legal and regulatory framework, following a risk assessment.
The company has fully complied with safety regulations mandated by European law and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). Drone flights occurred solely within a controlled zone, with no public access, and all defined safety distances as specified in the approved operational plan were upheld.
Evidence from both stationary and mobile recording devices confirms that the SSEAs operated strictly within the approved flight area, which was clearly delineated over Zappeion Park, per the issued permit.
The CAA closely monitors compliance with regulations to ensure public safety and the safe operation of airspace.
Any claims regarding improper or illegal permitting processes are inaccurate.
Finally, the CAA’s responsibilities are confined exclusively to issues relating to flight safety and airspace management. They hold no authority over any photography or videography conducted during the event.
Prosecutorial Investigation
The Athens Prosecutor’s Office has initiated an urgent preliminary examination regarding the drone incident.
Specifically, the head of the Athens Prosecutor’s Office, Aristides Koreas, has ordered the investigation following a complaint from the Ministry of Culture. The Acropolis Security Department will conduct the investigation to ascertain whether any violations of antiquities laws or other criminal offenses have occurred.
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