drone regulations
EU law distinguishes three categories for the operation of drones:
In the open category, drones can be used without a permit if they are flown on sight, remain below 120 m in altitude and have a maximum flying weight of 25 kg. Depending on the weight of the drone, there are restrictions on how close to uninvolved persons it can be flown. The pilot must register with the aviation authority.
In the specific category, drones are operated for which a permit from the aviation authority is required, for example if they are flown out of the pilot's line of sight. As a drone pilot in the special category, theoretical and practical training is mandatory.
The category certified is intended for drone flights with high safety requirements, for example, for passenger transport. Drones in this category have a size of at least 3 meters. The scope of the legal provisions hardly differs from manned aviation.
The most important EU rules for drones
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I avoid crowds of people |
When I fly a drone, I am not allowed to fly over uninvolved persons and crowds of people.
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I do not fly higher than 120 meters
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When I fly a drone, I keep a maximum flight altitude of 120m above ground, unless I am in possession of an appropriate permit.
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I keep visual contact |
When I fly a drone, I maintain visual contact with my drone. It is my responsibility to keep enough distance from other aircraft and to take evasive action in time because they cannot see my drone.
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I know the area restrictions |
When I fly a drone, I am aware of where it is allowed to fly and where it is not. The drone map helps me to be aware of area restrictions. It shows those areas where it is prohibited or restricted to fly around my drone.
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I respect the privacy of others |
When I fly a drone, I must comply with the legislation on data protection and privacy. Everyone has the fundamental right to protect their privacy, so I never fly low over private property.
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I am adequately insured |
When I fly a drone, I need to make sure that I am properly insured for my flight. In the event of an accident, liability lies with the drone pilot. I must pay for the damage I have caused.
YES, I can comply with these regulations..
Then I fly my drone in the open category. My drone is not subject to licensing. But there is a basic registration obligation of the pilot.
All other regulations are individual and depend on the weight of my drone >> see drone classes C0 to C4.
NO, I cannot comply with these regulations..
Then I fly my drone in the specific category.
I have to get my drone flight approved by the Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA) because it poses an increased safety risk.
Generally applicable drone rules in Switzerland
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Drone flights closer than 5km to airfields and higher than 120m above ground in control zones are subject to authorisation. |
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For drone flights with video goggles, without a second person with visual contact to the drone, a permission is required. |
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In addition to the national regulations, there are also cantonal and municipal regulations. |
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Do not fly any risky manoeuvres! The flight position of your drone must be clearly visible at all times. |
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Fly with consideration, avoid disturbing third parties. |
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Drone flights in hunting and nature conservation areas are prohibited. |
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Night flying is permitted. You must attach at least one green flashing light to your drone for this. |
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No flying within a 500m radius during police and emergency operations. |
Weight based rules in the open category
The European airspace structure for drones
