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When do we have to coordinate with Controlled Airspace in Spain?
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When flying in controlled airspace or within Flight Information Zones (FIZ), there will always be an Air Navigation Service Provider (ANSP) responsible for ensuring safe separation of aircraft, both on the ground (at airports) and in the air.
Before conducting the first flight in these zones, it’s essential to create a coordination document informing the ANSP of the planned operations.
Depending on the country you are flying in, you may require a pre-coordination step.
Let’s examine what’s required for drone flights in controlled airspace in Spain.
Before conducting the first flight in these zones, it’s essential to create a coordination document informing the ANSP of the planned operations.
Depending on the country you are flying in, you may require a pre-coordination step.
Let’s examine what’s required for drone flights in controlled airspace in Spain.
Airspace Management Providers for Drones in Spain
As mentioned earlier, ANSPs manage aircraft navigation, ensuring the safety of flights, including those of drone pilots. Currently, Spain has three civilian ANSPs, each responsible for specific airspace, subject to potential future changes:
- ENAIRE
- SKYWAY
- SAERCO
Requirements for Drone Flights in Controlled Airspace in Spain
If you’re a registered drone operator with training for flights in the Open or Specific Category, you’ll need:
Radio Operator Training for Drones
For flights in controlled airspace, using an aviation band radio is mandatory to communicate with air traffic in the area. Hence, possessing a radio operator license is necessary.
EARO (Evaluation and Mitigation of Operational Risk)
Before commencing flights in controlled airspace, it’s mandatory to demonstrate to each ANSP the planned procedures for flight and risk reduction or mitigation measures. This safety assessment, known as EARO, is compulsory along with ANSP approval for flight requests.
Requesting Flights in Controlled Airspace for Drones
Once the requirements mentioned above are fulfilled, flight requests can be made following the procedures outlined by each ANSP and considering the necessary lead time based on the flight zone.
Finally, approximately 24 hours before the flight, an operational flight plan must be submitted to confirm and register the flight in the air traffic control infrastructure.
Finally, approximately 24 hours before the flight, an operational flight plan must be submitted to confirm and register the flight in the air traffic control infrastructure.