In Europe, drone regulations are set by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and are implemented by each individual country. However, there are some common guidelines that apply across the EU when it comes to drone safety and awareness:
- Follow the EASA regulations: Drones must be operated in compliance with EASA regulations, including flying below 120 m and within visual line-of-sight.
- Register your drone: Drones with cameras and over 250g must be registered with the national aviation authority and a registration number must be displayed on the drone.
- Fly in designated areas: Many cities and countries in Europe have designated areas where drones can be flown safely and legally, for example, some countries have no-flight zones, such as near airports, military bases, or sensitive sites.
- Fly during daylight: The EASA recommends flying during daylight hours and avoiding flying at night, as it can be harder to see and navigate your drone.
- Keep a safe distance: Drones should be flown at a safe distance from other aircraft, people, and buildings.
- Don’t fly overcrowds: Do not fly your drone overcrowds of people, as it can be dangerous.
- Be aware of weather conditions: Avoid flying in adverse weather conditions such as high winds, rain or fog as it can be dangerous and make it hard to control the drone.
- Be aware of emergency services: Drones should not be flown near emergency services, such as firefighters or police, as it can interfere with their operations.
- Fly responsibly: Always use common sense and fly your drone responsibly, knowing that your actions may have consequences that could harm others.
- Get familiar with your drone: Before flying, make sure you have read and understood the manual and instructions that came with your drone, and also make sure you are familiar with how to control it, also check for any specific rules and regulations for the country you will be flying in.
Read more about the topic on the EASA website, “Do I need to register my drone?”