Operator and Drone Registration

Introduction

Drone registration is a foundational step for all operators and remote pilots in Europe. It ensures accountability, safety, and compliance in the rapidly growing unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) sector. Under European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) regulations, understanding who needs to register, how to complete the registration process, and what exemptions apply is crucial for operating legally and responsibly. This lesson will guide you through the requirements, processes, and practical steps for operator and drone registration, helping you stay compliant and avoid penalties.

By the end of this lesson, you'll have a clear understanding of the EASA requirements for registration and be prepared to complete the process efficiently.

Who Needs to Register?

Operator vs Remote Pilot

One of the first distinctions to understand is the difference between a UAS operator and a remote pilot:

• UAS Operator: The legal entity or individual responsible for the drone's operations. This includes ensuring compliance with regulations, maintaining drone safety, and managing liability.
• Remote Pilot: The person physically controlling the drone during flight.

Under EASA regulations (Reg 2019/947 Art. 14), it is the UAS operator who is required to register, not the remote pilot. However, remote pilots must hold the required certifications depending on the type of operation they conduct (e.g., Open, Specific, or Certified category).

Who Must Register?

You must register as a UAS operator if:

1. You operate a drone weighing 250 grams or more, or
2. Your drone is equipped with a sensor capable of capturing personal data (e.g., cameras), regardless of weight, or
3. Your drone can cause more than 80 Joules of kinetic energy on impact during flight.

This applies to both recreational and commercial operators.

Registration Requirements and Process

What Do You Need to Register?

To register as a UAS operator, you’ll need the following:

1. Personal or company details: Including name, address, and contact information.
2. Drone details: Manufacturer, model, serial number, and specifications.
3. Valid identification: Proof of identity for individuals or company registration for organizations.
4. National aviation authority (NAA) portal access: Registration must be completed through your country’s designated NAA portal.

Step-by-Step Registration Process

Follow these steps to complete your UAS operator registration:

1. Access your NAA portal: Each EU member state has its own aviation authority website where registration is conducted. For example:
   • Germany: Luftfahrt-Bundesamt (LBA)
   • France: Direction Générale de l'Aviation Civile (DGAC)
   • Spain: Agencia Estatal de Seguridad Aérea (AESA)
2. Create an account: Provide personal or organizational details to set up your profile.
3. Complete the registration form: Input drone specifications and operational details.
4. Pay the registration fee: Some countries may charge a small fee for registration.
5. Receive your operator registration number: This unique identification number confirms your compliance with EASA regulations.

Operator Registration Number and Marking

Once registered, you’ll receive a UAS operator registration number, which must be affixed to each drone you operate. Here’s how:

Marking Requirements

• Visibility: The registration number must be clearly visible on the drone’s exterior.
• Durability: Use a permanent label or engraving. Temporary markings, such as stickers, are acceptable if they remain intact during operation.
• Electronic identification: Some drones equipped with remote identification systems may automatically transmit the operator registration number during flight (Reg 2019/945 Art. 14).

Example Scenario

Imagine you register as an operator in Germany and receive the registration number "DEU12345". You operate two drones: a DJI Mavic Air 2 and a Parrot Anafi. You must physically mark both drones with "DEU12345" to comply with regulations.

National Aviation Authority Portals

Each EU country has a designated National Aviation Authority (NAA) responsible for UAS operator registration. Below are examples of key portals:

• Germany: Luftfahrt-Bundesamt (LBA)
• France: Direction Générale de l'Aviation Civile (DGAC)
• Spain: Agencia Estatal de Seguridad Aérea (AESA)
• Italy: Ente Nazionale per l'Aviazione Civile (ENAC)

Visit your country’s portal to complete your registration and access additional resources, including training materials and updates on regulations.

Registration Exemptions

While most operators are required to register, certain exemptions apply:

Exemptions

1. Toy drones: Drones classified as toys under Directive 2009/48/EC are exempt from registration.
2. Drones under 250 grams: If the drone weighs less than 250 grams and does not have sensors capable of collecting personal data, registration is not required.
3. Indoor-only operations: If the drone is exclusively operated indoors, registration is not necessary since it does not interact with public airspace.

Example Scenario

If you operate a DJI Mini 2 (weighing 249 grams) without a camera and only fly it indoors for recreational purposes, you are exempt from registration. However, if the drone is equipped with a camera, registration is mandatory regardless of weight.

Key Takeaways

• Who Registers: The UAS operator, not the remote pilot, is responsible for registration.
• Requirements: Registration is mandatory for drones over 250 grams, drones with sensors capable of collecting personal data, and drones that can cause significant kinetic energy on impact.
• Marking: After registration, the operator number must be clearly marked on all drones.
• National Portals: Registration is completed through your country’s designated aviation authority portal.
• Exemptions: Toy drones, drones under 250 grams without sensors, and drones used exclusively indoors are exempt from registration.

By completing your operator registration, you’re taking an essential step toward legal and responsible drone operations. In the next lesson, we’ll cover remote pilot certification requirements and operational categories to help you advance your skills and knowledge as a drone pilot.