Introduction – Air Traffic Safety
When flying a drone, you are part of air traffic. This means you share the airspace with other drones, helicopters, and airplanes. Safety is always the top priority.
Within Europe, EASA rules apply. As a drone pilot, you are responsible for conducting your flight safely and avoiding dangerous situations.
You must always be aware of your surroundings and ensure that you do not pose a risk to other airspace users.
Separation between manned and unmanned aviation
Both manned and unmanned aircraft operate in the same airspace. Manned aviation, such as airplanes and helicopters, always has priority.
As a drone pilot, you must keep sufficient distance and immediately give way when you see or hear another aircraft.
Even if you are flying legally, you are always responsible for avoiding collisions.
Visual contact and situational awareness
You must always maintain visual line of sight (VLOS) with your drone. This means you must be able to see your drone with the naked eye.
Situational awareness means being constantly aware of your surroundings, including other aircraft, people, obstacles, and weather conditions.
You must not rely solely on your screen. Always actively monitor your environment.
Airports and controlled airspace
Additional rules apply near airports and controlled airspace. These areas are often restricted or prohibited for drone operations.
Always use a drone app to check whether you are allowed to fly at your location.
Flying in these zones without permission can be dangerous and is usually prohibited.
Responsibility of the drone pilot
As a drone pilot, you are fully responsible for the safety of your flight. You decide whether it is safe to take off.
You must stop the flight if the situation becomes unsafe, for example due to bad weather or unexpected obstacles.
You are also responsible for any damage to people, animals, or property.