Is it a bird? A plane? Superman? None of the above. That little speck in the sky, often with a bright light, is an increasingly common sight in the airspace over major events. We’re talking, of course, about drones, those video-recording devices that have become hugely popular in recent years.
They’re great for capturing high-quality aerial shots, revealing unique angles, and helping with crowd monitoring and safety. They’re also used for live broadcasts, weddings, sporting events, and even advertising campaigns.
However, in the wrong hands, the technology can become a menace. A badly piloted drone might hover over the audience, block someone’s view, or buzz too close to the stage and distract performers right in the middle of their set. If the operator loses control, it could collide with people, crash into lighting rigs, or damage expensive sound and video equipment, forcing a sudden halt to the show.
Then there’s the security angle. Drones can carry high-definition cameras for unauthorised filming, leading to privacy issues or breaches of intellectual property, a big concern for concerts, festivals, and exclusive performances.
They can also be used to drop items into a crowd, smuggle contraband, or even deliver hazardous materials. In the worst-case scenario, the mere sight of a suspicious drone could trigger panic, causing a stampede.
Even when nothing physically happens, the presence of a drone can still chip away at the atmosphere. Fans might end up more focused on the buzzing overhead than on the performance they came to see, and security teams have to split their attention between managing the crowd and monitoring the sky.
Therefore, event organisers must be prepared to act if an unauthorised drone enters their area of responsibility.
The priority is, of course, to protect people and prevent disruption. First, security teams should quickly locate the drone and track its movements while alerting any on-site drone detection or counter-drone systems. If the venue has RF (radio frequency) scanners, radar, or visual spotters in place, they can help identify the operator’s location.
Once the operator is found, security or police should intervene immediately. In the meantime, if the drone poses a safety risk (for example, flying dangerously low or near the stage), the area underneath should be cleared until it’s removed from the airspace.
It’s also worth having a pre-agreed action plan with local authorities before the event. This might include temporary flight restrictions (TFRs), partnerships with licensed drone interception teams, and clear communication protocols between staff, performers, and emergency services.
Keeping an event secure takes experience, planning, and a fast, coordinated response when the unexpected happens. Whether it’s dealing with disruptive behaviour, safeguarding VIP areas, or responding to new challenges like rogue drones, having a professional security team on site can make all the difference.
Stage Security delivers event protection across the UK with the same commitment to safety, professionalism, and discretion that has earned the trust of organisers nationwide. With trained staff, proven systems, and a reputation for reliability, we help create an environment where your team can focus on the show while we handle the risks.
If you’re planning an event and want to make sure safety is taken care of from every angle, get in touch with our team today for a free, no-obligation quote.