The European Commission forecasts that by 2035, the European drone industry will attract over 100,000 people, with an economic potential exceeding 10 billion euros annually. It’s no wonder that many individuals are interested in this industry and the associated legislation.
Having been a drone pilot in Greece and the EU for quite some time, I bring extensive experience and knowledge, including legal expertise, to the table. In this article, I am eager to share some of this knowledge with you. It’s important to note that I’ll be focusing on civil unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) weighing up to 25kg.
Laws regarding this matter were recently enacted (in 2020), largely at the behest of the EU. Otherwise, drones would still lack any legal status and be considered mere toys. According to modern Greek legislation, drones are classified into 5 types, each falling under 3 categories of rights (similar to driver’s licenses). The rules are quite complex, but I’ve endeavored to outline them as succinctly and clearly as possible.
Types of drones according to European and Greek legislation:
You can fly without any permits or certifications up to a distance of 120m in all directions from the takeoff point without losing direct visual contact. You can fly close to people but not over crowds. Flying beyond 120m requires Category A1 privileges. No state registration (CE) is required..
For flights with such a drone, Category A1 privileges are required. Flying over crowds is prohibited, but you can still fly over areas where people are present, maintaining direct visual contact with the drone. State registration (CE) and insurance are required.
For flights with such a drone without interrupting direct visual contact with the drone, Category A2 qualifications are required. Flying over people is prohibited. Obtaining a government registration number (CE) and insurance is necessary.
For flights with such a drone while interrupting direct visual contact with the drone, Category A3 qualifications are required. Doing so is permitted no less than 150 meters away from residential buildings/roads/other structures.
For flights with such a drone without interrupting direct visual contact with it, A3 category licenses are required. Flying over crowds or individuals is prohibited. Obtaining a government-issued registration number (CE) and insurance is mandatory. Doing so is permitted only at a minimum distance of 150 meters from residential buildings, roads, or other structures.
For flights with such a drone while interrupting direct visual contact with it, A3 category licenses are required. Flying over crowds or individuals is prohibited. Obtaining a government-issued registration number (CE) and insurance is mandatory. Doing so is permitted only at a minimum distance of 150 meters from residential buildings, roads, or other structures.
Before flying, it’s important to check the map of flight and no-fly zones. If the area you’re interested in requires special permission, make sure to request it. By clicking on the image and accessing the map, you can also see any restrictions that are in place at specific times and when they will end.
Map with flight zones, click here to go to it.
Objects such as the following have permanent restrictions, and obtaining permission in these areas is very difficult, which is sometimes quite regrettable considering that, for example, in Corfu, the airport is located in the old town, where shooting is most interesting.
Airports
Ports
Military installations
Power generation plants
Major football stadiums
Additionally, there is the Orthodox state of Mount Athos, where shooting is completely prohibited, especially with a drone. However, you can obtain local permission to shoot on the lands of a specific monastery from the abbot of that monastery. Depending on the shoot, you may also need permission from the Holy Synod.
If you violate any of the aforementioned rules in Greece, you may face a fine ranging from 300 to 5000 euros. However, if your actions pose a serious risk to human life, criminal liability awaits you, potentially resulting in imprisonment.
Warning
This article is purely informative, and laws often change, so be sure to check with Greek legislation before flying.
Links:
Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority – answers to questions related to UAVs
PDF file with laws (in Greek)
EU laws, plans and forecasts for civil UAVs (in English)
