With the turn of the year, the EU regulation 2019 / 250 entered into force. This regulates the operation of “unmanned aircraft”, as it is called in official German. Specifically, we mean model airplanes, but above all the popular drones. The regulations now apply uniformly for the entire EU, as well as Norway, Iceland, Lichtenstein and Switzerland.

Anyone who now has a 250 If you want to let a drone weighing gram rise into the air, you must register as a remote pilot or operator with the Federal Aviation Office (LBA) and attach the registration number to the drone; unless it is a toy according to the toy directive. You also need a drone license if the aircraft is heavier than 250 grams (previously 2 kilograms). The website of the Federal Ministry of Transport contains an overview of the most important latest regulations.

Drones classification The operation of drones is divided into three categories : Open, special and subject to approval. The “open” drones have a minimum weight of 250 grams and a maximum weight of 25 kilograms, must be flown within sight and below 120 meters (previously 100 meters) and are not allowed to drop any objects or transport dangerous goods. There are also drones with a camera, even if they weigh less than 120 grams. The drones of the “open” category require registration, but not authorization. If a drone exceeds these regulations, it automatically falls into the “Special” category, which makes a permit mandatory. Drones that are particularly large or heavy, such as the air taxis advertised by Transport Minister Scheuer, are subject to approval. Special certification processes and licenses are required here.

In the “Open” category, there are also three sub-categories from A1 to A3, which relate to operating rules such as distances relate to uninvolved people. For A1 and A3, proof of EU competence is sufficient as a drone driver’s license. This consists of a theoretical online course and a multiple-choice test, which can be taken on the website of the Federal Aviation Office and is valid for five years.

Remote pilots – Certificate If you want to fly closer to people, you need an “EU remote pilot’s certificate A2” in addition to the proof of competence. This includes a self-assessment about the implementation of a “practical self-study”, as well as a further theory test at a test center recognized by the LBA. This is also a multiple-choice test that can be taken online and is valid for five years.

However, transition periods apply: As the LBA does not assume that all drone users will be able to register by the beginning of the year, it is sufficient by the end of April 2021 to put an alternative name and address on the drone with a sticker. The previous national proof of knowledge can also be used temporarily until the end of the year. Detailed information is given in the FAQ of the Luftfahrt-Bundesamt as well as an overview of the ADAC on the new rules.

Update 1.1. 2021, 18: 00: Information on light drones with cameras added.

(ktn)