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Fly Legally and Safely in Europe
The use of drones has grown exponentially in recent years, both for recreational and professional purposes. To ensure safety and privacy, the European Union has established a common regulatory framework governing drone operations across all Member States since 31 December 2020. Below are the key aspects you need to know to fly your drone legally and safely within Europe.
1. Drone Operator Registration
Regardless of the purpose of use, registering as a UAS operator in your country of residence is mandatory. This registration is unique and valid across all Member States of the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). Once issued, the operator registration number must be visibly affixed to your drone.
Exemption: Drones weighing less than 250 grams and not equipped with a camera are exempt from this requirement.
2. Remote Pilot Training and Certification
- Open Category A1/A3: Completion of an online training course and passing a theoretical knowledge examination are required. Familiarity with the manufacturer’s user manual is also mandatory.
- Open Category A2: In addition to the A1/A3 online training and exam, you must undertake practical self-training and pass a further theoretical exam conducted in person.
- Specific Category STS (Standard Scenarios): Alongside the A1/A3 training, you must pass a theoretical examination administered by the competent authority and a practical assessment carried out by a recognised entity.
3. General Flight Rules
- Maximum Altitude: Do not exceed 120 metres (400 feet) above ground level (AGL).
- Visual Line of Sight (VLOS): In the Open category and STS-01 operations, the drone must remain within the visual line of sight of the remote pilot. In Specific category operations under STS-02, BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) flights are permitted up to 2 km when supported by an airspace observer.
- Proximity to People: Maintain a safe distance from uninvolved persons, in accordance with the applicable operational subcategory.
- Minimum Age of Remote Pilot: 16 years old, although some countries may allow younger pilots under adult supervision.
4. Permitted Flight Zones
- Flights near airports or aerodromes: Operations are prohibited without prior authorisation from the relevant infrastructure managers.
- Environmental protection zones: Authorisation from the managing body of the protected area is required.
- Military restrictions: Many countries have restricted zones under military control, where prior authorisation is mandatory.
- Urban environments: Most countries impose restrictions in urban or densely populated areas for public safety reasons. You must consult national and local regulations applicable to your intended area of operation.
5. Third-Party Liability Insurance
While not mandatory in all countries, it is strongly recommended to hold third-party liability insurance to cover potential damages to others.
6. Travelling with Drones within Europe
- Single Registration: Your operator registration in your country of residence is recognised across all EASA Member States.
- Pilot Certification: Remote pilot competency certificates issued in one country are valid throughout the European Union.
7. Need Assistance with Authorisations and Certifications?
If you want to fly your drone in Europe worry-free, EU Drone Port offers a comprehensive flight authorisation management service across the EU, ensuring full compliance with the applicable regulations in each country. We also provide training courses to help you obtain the necessary qualifications, from the Open category to the Specific category, tailored to your needs as a remote pilot. With our experience in UAS regulatory compliance and remote pilot training, we guarantee a streamlined and 100% legal process so you can fly with total confidence.