How to fly drone in Germany?
If you’re looking to fly drone in Germany, it’s important to understand the rules and regulations that come with it. Drones have become increasingly popular in recent years, providing a new perspective on the world around us. However, flying a drone comes with a lot of responsibilities, especially when it comes to following the rules and regulations set by the authorities in Germany.
In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about how to fly a drone in Germany, including the legal requirements, no-fly zones, and best practices for safe and responsible flying. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable drone flying experience in Germany while also respecting the privacy and safety of others.
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Legal Requirement to Fly Drone in Germany
Registration
- Registration: All drones weighing more than 250 grams must be registered with the German aviation authority, the Luftfahrt-Bundesamt (LBA). Registration can be done online and costs €5. A registration number must be displayed on the drone.
Insurance
Insurance: All drone pilots in Germany are required to have liability insurance to cover any damage or injury that may occur during a flight. The minimum coverage required is €750,000. I am personally using GetSafe Insurance when I am flying drone in Germany.
Permit
Permit: In some cases, a permit may be required to fly a drone in Germany. This applies to drones weighing more than 5 kilograms, or if you plan to fly in certain areas such as cities or near airports. To obtain a permit, you will need to apply to the LBA and provide details about your drone and the planned flight.
Drone Categories
Drone Categories: Drones in Germany are classified into different categories based on their weight and features. Category C0 includes drones weighing less than 250 grams, which can be flown without a permit as long as they are operated within visual line of sight. Category C1 includes drones weighing between 250 grams and 2 kilograms, which require registration and insurance, and can be flown up to a maximum altitude of 100 meters. Category C2 includes drones weighing between 2 kilograms and 25 kilograms, which require registration, insurance, and a permit. Category C3 includes drones weighing more than 25 kilograms, which require registration, insurance, and a permit, as well as a certified pilot’s license.
It’s important to note that these regulations are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to stay up-to-date with the latest rules and requirements before flying your drone in Germany.
What are different Drone Categories in Germany?
- Category C0: Drones weighing less than 250 grams
- Can be flown without a permit as long as they are operated within visual line of sight
- Must be registered with the German aviation authority (LBA) for a fee of €5
- Must display the registration number on the drone
- Category C1: Drones weighing between 250 grams and 2 kilograms
- Require registration and insurance
- Can be flown up to a maximum altitude of 100 meters
- Must not be flown over people
- Must have a maximum speed of 57 km/h
- Must have a maximum distance from the pilot of 1000 meters
- Must not be flown within 1.5 kilometers of an airport or airfield
- Must not be flown within 100 meters of crowds or buildings not owned by the pilot
- Category C2: Drones weighing between 2 kilograms and 25 kilograms
- Require registration, insurance, and a permit from the LBA
- Can be flown up to a maximum altitude of 100 meters
- Must not be flown over people
- Must have a maximum speed of 100 km/h
- Must have a maximum distance from the pilot of 2000 meters
- Must not be flown within 1.5 kilometers of an airport or airfield
- Must not be flown within 100 meters of crowds or buildings not owned by the pilot
- Category C3: Drones weighing more than 25 kilograms
- Require registration, insurance, and a permit from the LBA
- Must be flown by a certified pilot with a remote pilot certificate
- Must have a maximum speed of 100 km/h
- Must have a maximum distance from the pilot of 2000 meters
- Must not be flown within 1.5 kilometers of an airport or airfield
- Must not be flown within 100 meters of crowds or buildings not owned by the pilot
It’s important to note that these regulations are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to stay up-to-date with the latest rules and requirements before flying your drone in Germany.
What are the different no-fly zones in Germany
- Airports: Drones are not allowed to be flown within 1.5 kilometers of airports or airfields. This is to ensure that drones do not interfere with commercial or private aircraft.
- Military Installations: Drones are not allowed to be flown over military installations or within a radius of 1.5 kilometers around them. This is to prevent any potential security risks or interference with military operations.
- Nature Reserves: Drones are not allowed to be flown over nature reserves or within a radius of 100 meters around them. This is to protect wildlife and prevent any disturbance to their natural habitats.
- Consequences of violating no-fly zones: Violating no-fly zones in Germany can result in fines and even criminal charges. The fines can range from €5,000 to €50,000, depending on the severity of the offense. In some cases, the drone may also be confiscated.
It’s important to check the no-fly zones in your area before flying your drone in Germany. Many no-fly zones are marked on aviation maps, and there are also mobile apps available that can help you identify restricted areas. As a responsible drone pilot, it’s crucial to follow all regulations and respect the privacy and safety of others.
Best Practices for Flying a Drone in Germany
- Stay within visual line of sight: To ensure the safety of your drone and others, always keep it within your visual range. This will help you avoid obstacles and prevent any potential accidents.
- Avoid crowded areas: Do not fly your drone over crowds or in areas with a high concentration of people. This can be dangerous and may violate privacy laws.
- Respect privacy: Be mindful of people’s privacy when flying your drone. Do not fly over private property without the owner’s permission, and avoid capturing images or videos of individuals without their consent.
- Practice safety and responsibility: Always follow the rules and regulations when flying your drone in Germany. Make sure to register your drone, obtain necessary permits, and follow all no-fly zones. In addition, be aware of weather conditions and always fly your drone in a safe and responsible manner.
Conclusion
Flying a drone in Germany can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it’s important to follow the rules and regulations to ensure the safety of yourself and others. By understanding the legal requirements, no-fly zones, and best practices for flying a drone in Germany, you can enjoy your drone hobby while respecting the privacy and safety of others. Remember to always stay informed and up-to-date with the latest regulations, and enjoy your drone flying experience responsibly.
