Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about UAS Open Category

1. Do I need a license to fly a drone in the Open Category?

Direct Answer: No, you do not need a license to fly in the Open Category, but you must follow specific operational rules and guidelines.

Regulatory Context: The Open Category is designed for low-risk operations, and no pilot license is required as long as the drone is within the specified weight and operational limitations (Reg 2019/947 Art. 4).

Practical Example: If you’re flying a drone weighing less than 250 grams for recreational purposes, you can operate it without a license, provided you adhere to all safety guidelines.

Safety Reminder: Always keep your drone within visual line of sight and avoid flying over people.

Official Reference: (Reg 2019/947 Art. 4)

2. What are the requirements for flying in the Open Category?

Direct Answer: To fly in the Open Category, your drone must meet specific criteria, and you must comply with operational rules.

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  Drones must be classified as C0, C1, C2, C3, or C4 based on weight and capability.
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  Maximum flight altitude is 120 meters AGL.
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  Operations must be conducted away from crowds and sensitive areas (Reg 2019/947 Art. 4, 5).

Practical Example: If you are flying a C1 drone (up to 900g), you need to maintain a distance from people and not exceed the altitude limit.

Safety Reminder: Always conduct a pre-flight check to ensure your drone is in safe operating condition.

Official Reference: (Reg 2019/947 Art. 4, 5)

3. How do I register my drone for the Open Category?

Direct Answer: You need to register your drone only if it weighs more than 250 grams or is equipped with a camera.

Regulatory Context: Registration is required under the EASA regulations for certain drone categories, specifically for drones weighing over 250 grams (Reg 2019/947 Art. 14).

Practical Example: If you own a drone that weighs 300 grams and has a camera, you must register it online with your national aviation authority.

Safety Reminder: Ensure that all registration details are correct to avoid penalties.

Official Reference: (Reg 2019/947 Art. 14)

4. Can I fly my drone near an airport?

Direct Answer: Generally, you cannot fly your drone near airports without prior authorization.

Regulatory Context: You must maintain a safe distance from airports and air traffic areas as per the specific national regulations, which often include a no-fly zone around airports (Reg 2019/947 Art. 5).

Practical Example: If you want to fly near an airport, you must contact the relevant air traffic control for permission before operating your drone.

Safety Reminder: Always check for local airspace restrictions and avoid flying in controlled airspace without permission.

Official Reference: (Reg 2019/947 Art. 5)

5. What happens if I exceed the 120m altitude limit?

Direct Answer: Exceeding the 120m altitude limit can result in penalties, including fines or suspension of your flying privileges.

Regulatory Context: The regulation stipulates that the maximum altitude for operations in the Open Category is 120m AGL to ensure safety in shared airspace (Reg 2019/947 Art. 4).

Practical Example: If you accidentally fly your drone to 130m, you risk being reported to local authorities and facing legal repercussions.

Safety Reminder: Use altitude alarms or app features to help monitor your drone’s height during flight.

Official Reference: (Reg 2019/947 Art. 4)

6. What are the safety guidelines for flying in the Open Category?

Direct Answer: Always operate your drone within visual line of sight, avoid crowded areas, and respect privacy laws.

Regulatory Context: Safety guidelines in the Open Category emphasize maintaining safe distances from people and sensitive locations (Reg 2019/947 Art. 5).

Practical Example: If you’re flying in a park, ensure you keep your drone away from groups of people and stay alert to your surroundings.

Safety Reminder: Regularly review safety guidelines and ensure you have liability insurance if required by local laws.

Official Reference: (Reg 2019/947 Art. 5)

7. Can I use my drone for commercial purposes in the Open Category?

Direct Answer: No, the Open Category is intended only for non-commercial use.

Regulatory Context: If you wish to operate drones for commercial purposes, you must apply for operations under the Specific Category, which has additional requirements (Reg 2019/947 Art. 5).

Practical Example: If you want to offer aerial photography services, you’ll need to transition to the Specific Category and comply with its regulations.

Safety Reminder: Ensure you understand the differences between categories to avoid operating illegally.

Official Reference: (Reg 2019/947 Art. 5)

8. How do I report an incident involving my drone?

Direct Answer: Report any incidents or accidents involving your drone to your national aviation authority.

Regulatory Context: Regulations require pilots to report serious incidents or accidents that occur during drone operations (Reg 2019/947 Art. 15).

Practical Example: If your drone crashes and causes property damage, you must inform the relevant authorities within a specified timeframe.

Safety Reminder: Keep records of all flights to help with incident reporting if necessary.

Official Reference: (Reg 2019/947 Art. 15)

9. What should I do if my drone flies out of control?

Direct Answer: Immediately use the emergency procedures to regain control, and if necessary, land the drone safely.

Regulatory Context: Pilots are responsible for maintaining control of their aircraft at all times (Reg 2019/947 Art. 5).

Practical Example: If your drone loses connection, activate the return-to-home feature if available, or safely land it in an open area.

Safety Reminder: Regularly practice emergency procedures to prepare for potential loss of control scenarios.

Official Reference: (Reg 2019/947 Art. 5)

10. How can I stay updated on changes to drone regulations?

Direct Answer: Regularly check the EASA website and your national aviation authority's announcements for updates on drone regulations.

Regulatory Context: Regulations can change, and staying informed is crucial for compliance and safety (Reg 2018/1139 Art. 1).

Practical Example: Subscribe to newsletters or alerts from aviation authorities to receive the latest information directly.

Safety Reminder: Always verify with official sources before planning any flight operations.

Disclaimer:

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  Regulations may change - always verify with official sources.
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  This is educational content - not legal advice.
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  Consult official EASA documentation for complete requirements.

For more information and resources, please visit 120mAGL.com . Always practice safe and responsible flying!