Drones are a great way to capture the spectacular beauty of ski resorts. With snow-capped peaks, shimmering valleys and breathtaking vistas, winter offers a unique opportunity for aerial photography. But before you pack your drone for your ski vacation, there are a few important things to consider. In this blog, we discuss the rules of drone flying, provide tips for flying in the cold, and provide information about drone maps for popular travel destinations.
Can I fly drones at my winter sports destination?
Whether drone flying is allowed at your ski resort depends on the airspace in which you want to fly and national laws. If you want to fly a drone at your ski resort, follow these guidelines.
1. Airspace
Only fly in uncontrolled airspace. You can find out which airspace is active at your location on a no-fly map. The drone maps of all popular winter sports countries are listed below.
2. Local legislation
In addition to European legislation, many countries also have national laws for the use of drones. For example, in Germany you have to take out liability insurance and in France you are not allowed to fly in the ski village (built-up area). Flying in national parks is also not allowed by default.
3. Registration and Certification
An EU drone license is often required to fly a drone. From 250 grams you need an A1-A3 certificate. Are you taking a drone with a C2 label? Then you also need the A2 certificate. In addition, you must register as a drone pilot. This is mandatory for drones with cameras. From the C1 character onwards, this registration number must be in your Fly app so that it can be transferred via Remote ID.
4. Privacy and Security
Do not clearly depict winter sports enthusiasts (and people in general) in images unless they have given their consent. Avoid flying drones near ski lifts, slopes and other busy areas. Be of sound mind and always keep a safe distance from your device.
Drone maps of the most popular winter sports destinations
Every country has its own digital drone map. The controlled airspaces are shown here. In the open category it is allowed to fly in uncontrolled airspace, which is not marked/colored on the map.
Drone maps of the five most popular winter sports destinations:
Is your winter sports country not listed here? You can find them here Drone maps of all countries in Europe that participate in the EU drone rules.
Tips for flying drones in winter
Are you going out with your drone this winter? Then read our practical tips for flying drones in winter. The cold and snow in winter can be challenging, but with the right preparation you will get the most out of your drone experience.
General drone rules for flying in the EU
Before your drone flight, always check the national laws and regulations of the country in which you will be flying. The most important drone rules for flying a drone in the EU are:
- Make sure you have your EU drone permit handy and able to show it when flying a drone weighing 250g or more.
- You must register if your drone has a camera on board
- Submit the operator number via Remote ID when flying a drone with label C1 or higher.
- The maximum flight altitude is 120 meters (from the starting point)
- Flying over crowds is not permitted
- The drone must always be flown within direct line of sight of the pilot
- Keep enough distance from people and busy places
- Never fly in no-fly zones, check the drone map beforehand!
Go ‘prepared’ to fly drones
You can imagine that additional controls are carried out for the use of drones in winter sports areas. It is therefore important that you know the applicable drone rules and adhere to them.
In the EU drone driving license training you will learn everything you need to know about how to use your drone correctly and all the drone rules. Even if you take a very light drone for winter sports, it is wise to at least get the A1-A3 certificate.
