Art on Ice - Hallenstadion Zurich
Art on Ice is one of Switzerland’s most famous show productions. Every year, Zurich’s sold-out Hallenstadion is transformed into a spectacular stage featuring music, lights, and figure skating. For this production, we were able to use our drones for the first time at an Art on Ice event to capture spectacular aerial footage directly above the show and over thousands of spectators—a feat that is unique in Switzerland.
The operation took place in the middle of a packed Hallenstadion, directly above the ice rink and thousands of spectators, while the artists were performing. Flying drones over crowds at large events is among the most technically demanding tasks in professional aerial photography and requires precise planning, clear safety protocols, and a well-coordinated team.
As is customary for such assignments, we worked in a two-person team consisting of a drone pilot and a spotter. While the pilot focuses entirely on flying the drone and operating the camera, the spotter constantly monitors the surroundings, the stage setup, the audience, and any movements in the area. This division of labor is particularly crucial when filming with drones at event venues and stadiums that feature complex stage equipment and lighting trusses.
As a general rule, indoor drone flights are not subject to airspace regulations, since indoor spaces are not classified as airspace by the FOCA. From a strictly legal standpoint, therefore, SORA certification would not be required for such operations.
However, it was crucial for the organizers that we operate as a professional drone operator with SORA certification for flights over crowds. Even though this certification is not legally required for indoor flights, it demonstrates that we operate according to the highest safety standards and have a proven track record of implementing comprehensive risk analyses, safety procedures, and professional mission planning.
This experience is a key factor in ensuring safe and smooth operations, especially when flying drones over crowds and at large live events.
Productions like Art on Ice vividly demonstrate how drones are opening up new perspectives in aerial photography for events, shows, and TV productions today. The aerial footage offers a view of the stage, lighting design, and choreography from the center of one of Switzerland’s largest indoor event venues.