All Drone Laws in Spain in 2023 (Ultimate Guide)

The changes should go into effect in July. Further information on current drone laws in Spain is available here. It should have an English translation. 

The 3 categories of implementation are

• The open risk category 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 sight: keep your drone within the visual line-of-sight of an observer who is next to you or in direct communication with you
• No flying near airports: 8km distance from airports
• Don't fly over crowds, any person, or moving vehicles
• Height limit of 150m
• Keep off sensitive areas such as government facilities
• Do not fly at night unless your drone has lighting
• Limits for drones over 2kg
• They 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:

1. Study in a certified training institution
2. Pass the theory exam covering air navigation, aircraft performance, dynamics, operation procedures, advanced communications, operation procedures, airspace, and air traffic control.
3. Register as an operator with AESA
4. This will cost around 1500 Euros
5. Take roughly a month
6. 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, or the people being recorded have granted you the right to record them. 

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 has 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 or 22,000 euros in fines.