FAQ

In this FAQ section, I will try to answer some of the most common questions regarding Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones. If you have any additional questions, feel free to contact me.
Yes. Since 31 December 2020, a common European regulatory framework has applied to drone operations across the European Union.
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is the EU authority responsible for maintaining and improving aviation safety standards throughout Europe.
Yes. The level of training required depends on the category of operation and the type of drone being used.
For this reason, certified training and examination procedures are available for remote pilots.
Certain exemptions may apply to drones weighing less than 250 g, particularly when they do not carry a recording camera or when they are classified as toys.
No. Greece, like every EASA Member State, has established geographical zones for drone operations.
These may include areas where drone flights are prohibited, restricted, or permitted only under specific conditions or with prior authorization. Such areas may include airports, urban zones, protected areas and other restricted locations.
Geographical zone restrictions apply regardless of the category of drone operation.
Yes. Indoor drone operations are possible, provided that appropriate safety measures are taken to protect both the people present and the aircraft itself.
Under European drone regulations, the UAS operator must be registered when the applicable conditions require it.
In Greece, registration is carried out through the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA). The operator registration number must be displayed on the drone as required by the applicable regulations.
Failure to comply with legal obligations may result in financial penalties or other administrative sanctions.
Under standard operating conditions, the maximum flight altitude is generally 120 metres above the surface.
The remote pilot must also maintain Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) with the drone during the flight, unless the operation has been specifically authorized under different conditions.
Please note that lower altitude limits or additional restrictions may apply in certain geographical zones.
Flight time varies depending on the drone model, weather conditions — particularly wind — and the requirements of each project.
In practice, actual flight duration may vary considerably depending on the aircraft and operating conditions.
Liability insurance may be required depending on the type of operation, the aircraft and the applicable national and European regulations.
For professional drone operations, appropriate third-party liability insurance is an important part of operating safely and responsibly.
Make sure that the operator is properly trained and certified for the type of operation required, is registered with the appropriate aviation authority where required, complies with the applicable flight regulations and operates with appropriate insurance coverage.
A professional operator should also be able to assess whether the location requires additional authorization or is subject to geographical restrictions.
STEFANOS MATSOYKALIDIS // DRONE PILOT // FILMMAKER