Latest drone homologation, obligations, and legislation in Europe
The European drone regulation, also known as the U-Space regulation, came into force on January 1, 2024. This regulation aims to harmonize the rules applicable to drones throughout the European Union.
The main novelties of this regulation are as follows:
A new drone classification: Drones are now classified into three categories based on their mass and nuisance potential.
New obligations for drone operators: Drone operators must now hold a certification, undergo training, and take out a civil liability insurance.
New restrictions on flight zones: Drones are now prohibited from flying in certain areas, including residential areas, airports, and sensitive areas.
Drone classification
Drones are now classified into three categories based on their mass and nuisance potential:
Category A1: Drones with a mass of less than 250 g are allowed to fly without any restrictions.
Category A2: Drones with a mass of between 250 g and 900 g are allowed to fly at a maximum altitude of 120 m and 30 m from people and property.
Category A3: Drones with a mass of more than 900 g are subject to stricter restrictions. They must be used in designated areas, at a maximum altitude of 120 m and 50 m from people and property.
Obligations for drone operators
Drone operators must now hold a certification, undergo training, and take out a civil liability insurance.
The certification: Certification is mandatory for drone operators of category A2 and A3. It can be obtained by following training from an approved organization.
The training: Training is mandatory for drone operators of category A2 and A3. It must cover the theoretical and practical aspects of flying a drone.
Civil liability insurance: Civil liability insurance is mandatory for all drone operators. It must cover damage caused to third parties by the drone.
Restrictions on flight zones
Drones are now prohibited from flying in certain areas, including residential areas, airports, and sensitive areas.
Residential areas: Drones are prohibited from flying over residential areas, except with the express authorization of the competent authority.
Airports: Drones are prohibited from flying within a radius of 5 km around an airport.
Sensitive areas: Drones are prohibited from flying in sensitive areas, such as military zones, nuclear power plants, and critical infrastructure.
In France, the European drone regulation is transposed by Decree No. 2023-1076 of July 27, 2023, on the use of unmanned aircraft.
15 сен 2024
