150m max height
Don't fly over crowds
8km from airport
Only line of sight
All Drone Laws in Spain for 2020 (Ultimate Guide)
This is a guide for Spanish drone laws in 2020 (updated every year) where you'll get a clue about what you can or shouldn't do while flying and travelling through this country.
Table of Contents
Are drones legal in Spain?
Yes. Drones are legal in Spain. The new decree passed in December 2017, specified the process of registering for a commercial drone in Spain. It is worth noting that prior to the introduction of the new laws Spain has imposed a complete ban on drones in the country.
Who do I contact?
Laws governing the use of drones in Spain are governed by the State Agency of Air Security (AESA). Here is their website.
You can get in touch with them via:
Email: drones.aesa@seguridadaerea.es
Tel: (+34)913968000
What are the drone laws in Spain?
he rules have provisions for both commercial and recreational drones. New technologies emerging in RPAS indicate the Spanish authorities are about to incorporate the new European laws. The changes should go into effect in July. Further information current drone laws in Spain available here. It should have an English translation.
The 3 categories of implementation are:
- The open risk category that covers low-risk flights done by rookie pilots
- Specific category involving medium risk operations (prior authorization a must)
- Certified category for certified operator pilots.
Line of sightKeep your done within the visual line-of-sight of an observer who is next to you or in direct communication with you- No flying near airports8km distance from airports
- Don't fly over crowdsDo not fly over any person or moving vehicle
- Height limit of 150m
- Keep off sensitive areassuch as government facilities
- No night flyingDo not fly at night unless your drone has lighting
- Limits for drones over 2kgThey should be operated with evasion and detection systems
- Minors should fly with the supervision of adults
Drones weighing less than 250 g are exempt from regulations. There is a little leeway when it comes to flying but the rules generally apply across the board.
How can I become a certified drone pilot in Spain?
To become a drone pilot in Spain, one must:
- Study in a certified traning institution
- Pass the theory exam covering air navigation, aircraft performance, dynamics, operation procedures, advanced communications, operation procedures, airspace, and air traffic control.
- Register as an operator with AESA
- This will cost around 1500 Euros
- Take roughly a month
- You should be able to speak Spanish
Can I fly over the beach?
As long as the beach is empty you should be good to go.
Can you take photos or videos of random people on your personal drone?
Absolutely not. There are strict data privacy laws governing the use of drones in Spain.
Can I use my drone for commercial uses?
Only if you meet the professional drone operator (RPAS) requirements.
Is FPV allowed in Spain?
Yes. Provided the flight is within the visual line of sight and have another party overlooking the operation.
Rules on commercial drones:
If you work with RPAS for monetary use you must:
- Have liability insurance
- register your drone with EASA
- Certified drone pilot with a medical certificate
What are the restricted areas for flying drones in Spain?
There is a new app called ENAIRE that details the areas worth flying. It helps you figure out the right flight plans and details ensuring you remain on an authorized flight path.
The flight zones are demarcated into the following flight modules: restricted, prohibited, dangerous, no camera flight, protected flight zone, temporary flight, and controlled flight.
Flights across national parks are prohibited meaning if you want to enjoy a flight across the ten in the Iberian Peninsula, you must seek authorization from the respective Spanish National Parks body.
Can I fly over the Balearic Islands while in Spain?
Yes, all the islands allow drone flights as there are no airports. A few limited zones exist but are easy to evade.
What is it about the new privacy laws in Spain?
Spain, like its European partners, has strong data privacy laws governing the country. More information is available in the Data Protection Act.
Can I be penalized?
Yes. There are hefty penalties for anyone who breaches the data privacy laws and illegal trespass laws. The worst-case scenario will be jail time or22,000 euros in fines.
What are my top drones to fly safely in Spain?
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.
1.Dji Mavic Mini - The best international travel drone (under 250g)
I have covered it much more in depth in my article review and even compared it with the DJI Spark and Mavic Air.
Advantages
- 30 min battery life
- under 250g
- super portable
- 4km range
- can edit videos in the app
DISAdvantages
- no obstacle avoidance
- no settings for iso and shutter speed
2.Dji Mavic Air 2 - My favorite drone overall
DJI lowered it's price since it was first released.
Advantages
- 3 way sensors
- 68kph (fastest among the 3)
- follow me mode(quite a few options)
- 8gb internal storage
- ISo & shutter speed settings
- 6 photo modes
- takes RAW photos
- 100mbps bitrate
DISAdvantages
- battery life ins't that amazing
Restricted Areas and Geofencing (drone FLying map)
The best way to figure out what areas you can fly in, while you're here is by consulting DJI offilicial map.
They do a great job mapping the places that one should avoid while flying in every country:
- airports
- military bases
- prisons
- power plants
- any high risk areas
