In Germany, drones are quickly becoming integrated into the lives of everyday citizens. Mostly used for commercial purposes like aerial photography and surveying, drones in the country have the potential to greatly reduce the time and energy that would have been spent gathering an array of data from various manual processes.
With the increased use of drones, authorities in Germany now need to place adequate policies and regulations in order to ensure safety standards are being implemented.
Since the technology behind drones has become increasingly popular over recent years, new laws have been put in place to regulate their use in German airspace.
Understanding these drone laws can be a little confusing at first however, they are essential for anyone wishing to fly drones recreationally or commercially in Germany.
General Drone Laws in Germany (2022)
If you’re looking to fly a UAS (unmanned aerial system) weighing over 5 kilograms, obtaining authorization from the corresponding German state’s aviation authority is a must.
This permission will only be approved if they conclude that your operation of the UAS won’t jeopardize air safety or public safety and that data protection policies are not infringed upon.
To fly unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and model aircraft in the regulated airspace of airfields, both military and civilian, including international airports throughout Germany, requires official certification from their Aviation Control.
The Deutsche Flugsicherung has granted unrestricted access to the sixteen airports it oversees, with some restrictions:
- The airport’s outer limits are no less than 1.5 kilometers away
- To ensure safety and accuracy, the drone must be operated within the direct visual range of its operator.
- During the flight, the operator or their lookout must keep a close watch on the airspace and be aware of any other aircraft in order to stay safe.
- Crewed aircraft operations are always given priority over other aircraft.
- Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and uncontrolled model aircraft must be reported to the local air traffic control authority for review.
- The weight limit of model aircraft should not exceed 5 kg.
- Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) must not exceed a maximum weight of 25 kilograms.
- Model aircraft must remain below 30m in altitude for safety.
- Unmanned Aerial Systems must not ascend to a height of more than 50 meters.
