The Mission: Sports on the Canals

Commissioned by 8 The Agency, Zero Gravity supported the launch of the sportswear brand Oysho in Amsterdam. The campaign was ambitious: a group of well-known ‘fitfluencers’ exercising (fitness and cycling) on a flatboat cruising down the Amstel. ZG was tasked with capturing this unique spectacle from the air, perfectly blending the dynamics of the city with the energy of the brand.

A Puzzle in the Sky: The CTR Time Slot

Flying over Amsterdam is an elite sport in its own right. The entire city falls within Schiphol Airport’s Controlled Airspace (CTR). The rules are strict: only one commercial drone is allowed in the air at any given time. At times during the summer months, there can be ten operators rivaling for the same timeslot.

This not only requires tight planning but also diplomatic coordination with industry peers. Thanks to our years of experience and strong professional network, we always manage to secure a workable time slot, no matter how busy the filming day is.

A Flying Relay Across the Amstel

The Fitfluencers sailed along quite a stretch of the Amstel River through Amsterdam. Because the boat was constantly moving and we were bound by strict airspace time slots, we devised a clever ‘relay plan.’

As soon as we signed off at the first location, another party could briefly take to the skies. While they flew, we quickly moved to the next vantage point along the route. By the time the boat arrived there, we were signed back in and ready for takeoff. Thanks to this rigorous preparation, not a single moment was lost, allowing us to capture the entire route seamlessly.

Safety in a Crowded City Center

Flying in a busy city requires maximum visibility and safety. We operate according to strict urban guidelines: flying exclusively over water or rooftops and never directly over crowds.

During this production with the DJI Inspire 3, our presence was clearly marked by our crew van, reflective vests, and warning signs. A dedicated spotter was also present at all times. The spotter doesn’t just monitor the airspace; they also act as a point of contact for passersby. This allows us to focus on the perfect shot while ensuring the surroundings remain safe and informed.

The Result

Below you can see the video produced by 8 The Agency featuring our aerials. It’s a result we are proud of: the energy of the fitfluencers and the beauty of Amsterdam come together perfectly.