The European Regulatory Framework (EASA)
Since 1 January 2021, drone regulation has been harmonised at European level by EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency). Three categories define operating conditions:
Open Category — lightweight drones (<25 kg), line of sight, away from populated areas and people. No prior authorisation required but mandatory registration.
Specific Category — higher-risk operations (populated areas, near aerodromes, at night). Requires authority authorisation or declaration of compliance with a standard scenario (STS-01, STS-02). Pilots must hold the relevant national theoretical competency certificate — in France, this is the CATS (Certificat d'Aptitude Théorique de pilote à distance pour les Scénarios standards), which replaced the former CATT on 1 January 2026 and is recognised across all EU member states.
Certified Category — very high-risk operations (carrying persons, critical systems). Full certification required.
The majority of professional missions (inspection, mapping, video in urban areas) fall under the Specific Category.
Restricted and Regulated Zones
Most European countries publish drone zone maps accessible through national apps and portals (Geoportail in France, NATS in the UK, AIP in Germany). Key zone types include:
- Restricted zones (R) — limited use airspace: military areas, national parks, SEVESO sites. Flight prohibited without authorisation.
- Danger zones (D) — temporary hazard zones (military exercises, works). Mandatory consultation before flight.
- Prohibited zones (P) — permanently prohibited airspace (presidential palaces, nuclear facilities). Flight strictly forbidden.
- Control zones (CTR) — aerodrome control zones. Flight prohibited without coordination with air traffic control.
In major cities, much of the airspace is classified CTR or regulated. Operations there require special authorisations.
What You Need to Know as a Client
Share the exact location early
Your operator is responsible for flight legality. They consult the regulatory map and obtain necessary authorisations. The earlier you share precise coordinates, the better they can prepare.
Allow time for authorisations
A regulatory zone authorisation can take 5 to 15 working days. Don't book your operator the day before a complex operation.
Verify your operator manages authorisations
A professional operator handles authorisations themselves. They do not ask you to deal with the paperwork.
Situations requiring special attention
- Weddings / events with public: police permit + venue owner agreement
- Dense urban areas: STS-01 scenario minimum
- Night flights: specific authority authorisation
- Broadcast content: additional media authority declarations may apply