150m max height
Don't fly over crowds
Don't fly near airports
Only line of sight
This is a guide for Austrian drone laws in 2023 (updated every year) where you'll get a clue about what you can or shouldn't do while flying and traveling through this country.
Yes. Provided you abide by all laws set out by Austro Control, the national drone governing body, you are set. If you are a seasoned drone pilot who has been able to fly to different countries and continents, you will find the Austrian rules quite strict.
For information on anything dealing with the Austrian Aviation industry, contact Austro Control. Their authority extends to unmanned aerial vehicles which are drones. Reach them by phone at Tel: +4351 703 7111 or can send an email to ulfz@austrocontrol.at.
Austria does not focus too much on the distinction between commercial and recreational drones. It is worth pointing out the expected changes to the EU drone regulations as of 1st July 2020. Surprisingly, Austria had the Amended Act in place in 2014. The changes make it impossible for a first-timer to own or use a drone.
Flying over any gathering of people is a preserve of the security agencies. This covers sports areas, concerts, and events. However, there are special situations where it can be allowed.
Yes. Flight in the first-person view is only allowed if there is another person who is on standby and ready to intervene should the need present itself.
No way. That can only be authorized on a special case basis, normally reserved for security agencies.
It should take a week or two.
Yes. Provided you get a license with Austro Control.
You must give CASA a 5 days heads-up, then apply for a reference number while abiding by all rules pertaining to recreational drones.
You need liability insurance to operate a drone in Austria. This covers all the criteria for drones. You can check out my guide on how much drone insurance costs.
The use of drones for commercial use has grown into an industry in Austria. Changes in rules allow you to fly your drone commercially provided it weighs less than 2 Kg. First, you must apply for an aviation reference number (ARN).
Sketch your ARN number onto your drone.
The weight of the drone is a deciding factor as to whether it needs a permit or not. You do not need a permit if:
The law does separate unmanned aerial vehicles into 2 categories.
This class of drones is that which exceeds the visual line of sight of the pilot. Legally, this category is regarded as civilian aircraft. In that case, any user must have a pilot license.
Yes, however, you must apply for a category C and D permit. You can take that exam electronically through Austro Control.
For the sake of practice, check out the online questionnaire here.
More information on the changing EU policies is available here.
Yes. If you lack a license yet the drone you are flying is in a category that demands one, Austro Control or any other citizen can legally file a complaint. This is an administrative offense and carries a fine of 22,000 euros.
My following two recommendations are 2 great compact drones that are quite silent and also small enough to travel with and not stand out as annoying.
4k
31 min
10 km
No follow-me
DJI has surprised us with this incredible camera drone under 250g, which is legal to fly in most countries without registration.
It comes at a very cheap price for its incredible specs.I have covered it much more in-depth in my article review and even compared it with the Mavic Air 2.
4k 60p
34 min
10 km
Follow me
If you want more control over things like shutter speed, iso, and such, the best professional drone that still falls under the 500g category is the DJI Mavic Air.
It's made mostly for people who want to play around with settings and enter into the pro category.
DJI lowered its price since it was first released.
The best way to figure out what areas you can fly in, while you're here is by consulting DJI's official map.
They do a great job mapping the places that one should avoid while flying in every country:
If you are considering visiting Austria, make sure you’ve learned all the dos and don’ts of flying drones in this region. This will help you have a safe journey and enjoy flying your drone without getting yourself into trouble.
Also, keep in mind that, commercial and recreational drones are treated differently in most countries therefore you will need to prepare yourself accordingly. Last but not least, always follow rules and regulations and make sure to respect the laws of every country.
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