General rules for a Drone in Spain
In Spain, the use of drones is regulated by the Spanish Aviation Safety and Security Agency (AESA). The following rules apply to the operation of drones in Spain:
- Drones that weigh 250 grams or more and are used for commercial purposes must be registered with the Spanish Aviation Safety and Security Agency (AESA).
- Drones that weigh less than 250 grams and are used for recreational purposes do not need to be registered with the AESA.
- Drones must be registered with AESA and must display the registration number on the drone.
- Drones must be flown in a way that does not pose a risk to people, animals, or - property on the ground.
- Drones must be flown at a safe distance from people and property.
- Drones must not be flown over crowds of people or large events, such as sporting events or concerts.
- Drones must not be flown above an altitude of 120 meters (400 feet) above the ground.
- Drones must be kept within sight of the operator at all times.
- Drones must be operated should be less then 500 meters
- Drones must not be flown in bad weather or in low visibility conditions.
- Drones must not be flown near airports, airfields, or other aircraft.
Recreational use of drones in Spain
If you want to use a drone for recreational purposes in Spain, you do not need a permission from AESA. However, you must still follow the general rules for the operation of drones in Spain, as outlined above.
It is important to note that the use of drones for recreational purposes is not allowed in certain areas, such as protected natural areas or military zones.
In addition, it is illegal to use drones to take photographs or videos of people without their consent. It is also illegal to use drones to invade the privacy of others or to interfere with the operation of other aircraft.
It is important to be aware of and follow all drone laws and rules in Spain to ensure the safety of people and property.
Commercial use of drones in Spain
If you want to use a drone for commercial purposes in Spain, you must obtain a permission from AESA. To obtain a permission, you must:
Be at least 18 years old.
Have a valid pilot's license or be under the supervision of a licensed pilot.
Have a valid insurance policy covering the use of the drone.
Commercial drone use is further divided into two categories:
Open Category: This category is for drones weighing less than 25 kilograms (55 pounds) and flying at altitudes of less than 120 meters (400 feet) above the ground. In this category, operators do not need to have a specific pilot's license, but they must have completed a training course approved by AESA.
Specific Category: This category is for drones weighing more than 25 kilograms (55 pounds) or flying at altitudes above 120 meters (400 feet). In this category, operators must have a specific pilot's license issued by AESA.
Do I need EASA certification to fly a drone in Spain?
In Spain, you need certification to fly a drone, as the country is a member of the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The specific rules and certification requirements depend on the weight of the drone. You can use our calculator to determine the applicable rules and any necessary certification.
In our guides, we describe only the open categories, which are the most common for most non-commercial pilots.
Which drone license do I need to fly in countries that are members of EASA?
- Minimum age is 16
- Drone operator registration required
- Read user's manual
- May fly over uninvolved people (should be avoided if possible)
- No flight over assemblies of people
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