These are not just toys: how the first drone park in the department.

Summary
Drones are becoming an essential tool for learning and innovation in Pradines. From building inspections to 3D modeling and drone soccer, the Zephyr-Drone association aims to popularize this demanding and supervised hobby.

The sun is shining, the sky is blue… And a faint sound of an engine can be heard. As it flies near the ground, it blows the grass and flowers. This Saturday, like every week, drones are out in Pradines. But this Saturday, Nicolas Dubrun, who opened the first drone park in the department in 2023 in Pradines (near Cap Nature), was offering a discovery day. “As a hobby, people use drones for photos and videos. But there is so much more to do. We want to show people what it is and all the uses,” smiles the enthusiast.

He ventured into the world of drones seven years ago. “Initially, I studied architecture, then I worked on road construction sites for 17 years. A year before I stopped, I bought a drone. It was just a hobby. I took it to the construction sites! And then, I wanted to continue,” shares the Lot resident. With his experience in construction, he can conduct drone inspections. “Being a drone pilot is not really a profession. The drone is a tool, and expertise is required behind it.” Since the beginning of his activity, he has invested €200,000. “So, I do building inspections, as well as photovoltaic panels. I travel all over France. I also do 3D modeling,” smiles Nicolas. Recently, he worked on the village of Conques. But he would like to venture into the Valentré bridge or the Cahors Cathedral.

“Drones are more than just toys”

Thanks to his Zephyr-Drone association, he shares his passion with a wider audience. He has made some interesting connections. Like David Leroy, a professional photographer and videographer who started his company “Eyes Focus”. “I work on my own. Drones make up about 20% of my work,” says the Lot resident, who quickly joined the association led by Nicolas Dubrun. Professionally, both exchange skills as well.

Together, they introduce young (and older) individuals to drone flying. Through initiation days like this Saturday or various events. Recently, the duo visited Saint-Étienne college to share their drone knowledge with photography students. And the most important aspect: regulations. “We mustn’t forget that it’s aviation. Drones are not just toys. Some started with drones and are now airplane pilots!” jokes Nicolas Dubrun. The drone regulations changed on January 1, 2026 – it is now European, although each country has its own specifics. “We have young people who have just bought their equipment, who don’t know how to fly but especially don’t know where they are allowed to fly,” shares the enthusiast. He points to an example: prohibition of flying over Rocamadour or Saint-Cirq-Lapopie. “Previously, they could have three drones per week. It’s complicated.” And not following the flight plan is a serious offense that can be very costly.

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Nicolas Dubrun also wants to emphasize, “We mustn’t forget that it is dangerous. A small machine like this can go over 90 km/h. Launched at full speed, if it hits someone, it can do serious harm. That’s why there are many safety rules.” But also rules regarding the environment. Such as the prohibition of flying near cliffs when certain bird species are nesting. All of this must be considered before flying. The Zephyr-Drone association is there for that. “Our initiations are really designed for leisure. We talk about all of this, we teach them to become familiar with the machines. It’s a good idea, especially before buying equipment that is expensive. We want to enable people to learn to fly, to know what they can do with a drone, and all of this in safety.” Soon, Nicolas Dubrun also hopes to be able to offer different certifications.