What are the drone rules in Hungary?
In June, Hungary plans to introduce a new set of drone rules. The stricter regulations are purposely aimed at preventing terrorism, protecting lives, and maintaining the smooth running of airports.
no registration under 250g
Don't fly over crowds
Don't fly near airports
Don't fly near government
Hungary is an inspiring place and even better for your holiday plans. All types of drone flying within Hungary is subject to strict regulation.
Who do I contact
The body responsible for regulating drone use by influencing directives on what they can and can’t do is the General Directorate of Air Transport (CAA). The quickest way to get a hold on them in the event you need clarification on an issue is through:
Email: caa@itm.gov.hu
Tel: (+36)12735526
Address: Aviation Authority, H-1675 Budapest, Pf 41
Absolutely, Hungary allows the use of drones and unmanned aerial vehicles. It all depends on what you want to do with your drone. You can even bring your drone with you while on holiday provided you show proof of ownership. The rules keep it restricted to one drone per person.
According to Hungarian laws, the weight of the drone is key when determining the category it lies in. To be exact:
Back in the day, Budapest had a complete no-tolerance policy when it came to drones, this is not the case today. However, there are strict security controls at the airport. Pay close attention to the policy of the airliners as some require the batteries to be detached and carried separately.
In June, Hungary plans to introduce a new set of drone rules. The stricter regulations are purposely aimed at preventing terrorism, protecting lives, and maintaining the smooth running of airports.
The rules will complement the new European Aviation Safety Agency laws which will kick in this June 2020. You can fly your drone in any location provided it does not fall within the drone license laws. The 3-color flight map is a product of Legter.hu comprising red, green, and blue.
To fly any drone in Hungary, a license and liability insurance are a must-have. Presently, there are no express flight restrictions that hinder drone flight. With that in mind, stick to the basics such as:
As I mentioned earlier, the weight of your drone plays a key role, even in the case of liability insurance. Here are the figures:
For recreational use, make your application 4 days before the flight. The process is absolutely free.
Authorization for commercial use must also be 30 days before the date, but it will be approved within 4 working days at most. The license fee is 10 euros, (60 Euros over national parks).
Start by filling out this form available online. You then forward it to the Military Aviation Authority, on their email at rpas@nfm.gov.hu. From there you shall be directed further to the next step.
I know you almost froze when you read the Military part. Provided you have no intention to stir up trouble, then there is nothing to worry about.
As part of the registration, you must explain:
The only part about drone use where registration is waived is when using a drone weighing less than 250 g.
If you just check in at Budapest Airport, here are the regulations that apply to anyone carrying an unmanned aerial vehicle:
The baggage from transportation in hold should be safely packed to prevent any damage from occurring. Both terminals have a baggage wrapping service. Find more details here.
Drone flights lacking adequate authorization are subjected to three misdemeanor categories. The fines vary from 0 to 300,000 euros. Part of the new laws kicking in this June will try to standardize the fines process. For instance, if a drone pilot happens to threaten or endanger someone’s life, authorities can launch a criminal prosecution.
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:
These would be the current updated drone laws for Hungary. I suggest checking my full map with all the countries' drone laws to see where it's best to travel.
If you are going to visit Hungary, 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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