Drone flying at your winter sports destination

Drones are a great way to capture the spectacular beauty of winter sports destinations. With snow-capped peaks, shimmering valleys and breathtaking views, winter offers a unique opportunity for aerial shots. But before you pack your drone for the ski holiday, there are some important things to consider. In this blog, we discuss the rules for drone flying, give tips for flying in the cold and share information on drone maps of popular destinations.

Can I drone fly at my winter sports destination?

Whether drone flying is allowed at your winter sports destination depends on the airspace you want to fly in and national laws. If you want to fly a drone at your winter sports destination, follow these guidelines.

1. Airspace

Only fly in uncontrolled airspace. Which airspace is active at your location can be found on a no-fly zone map. Drone maps of all popular winter sports countries are listed below.

2. Local legislation

Many countries have national legislation for drone use in addition to European legislation. For example, in Germany you must have compulsory third-party insurance and in France you are not allowed to fly in the ski village (built-up area). Flying in national parks is additionally not allowed by default.

3. Registration and certification

The EU Drone Licence is often required for flying a drone. From 250 grams, you need an A1-A3 certificate. Are you taking a drone with a C2 label? Then you also need the A2 certificate. In addition, you need to register yourself as a drone pilot. This is mandatory for drones with cameras. From the C1 label onwards, this registration number must be in your fly app so that it can be broadcast via Remote ID.

4. Privacy and security

Do not depict winter sports enthusiasts (and individuals in general) recognisably in images unless they have given permission. Avoid drone flying near ski lifts, slopes and other crowded areas. Use your sane mind, always keep enough distance with your device.

Drone maps of the most popular winter sports destinations

Every country has its own digital drone map. Here, controlled airspaces are marked in. In the open category it is allowed to fly in uncontrolled airspace, this is not marked/coloured on the map.

Drone maps of the five most popular winter sports destinations:

Is your winter sports country not listed here? Here you can find the drone maps of all countries in Europe participating in the EU drone rules.

Tips for drone flying in winter

Going out with your drone this winter? Then read our handy tips for drone flying in winter conditions. Winter cold and snow can be challenging but with the right preparation you will get the most out of the drone experience.

General drone rules for flying in the EU

Before your drone flight, always check the national laws and regulations of the country you will be flying in. The main drone rules for flying a drone in the EU are:

• Make sure you have your EU Drone Permit at hand and can show it when flying a drone weighing 250g or more
• You need to register yourself if your drone has a camera on board
• Transmit the operator number through Remote ID if you are flying a C1 label drone or higher
• The maximum flying altitude is 120 metres (from where you take off)
• Flying above crowds is not allowed
• The drone must always be flown in direct sight of the pilot
• Keep sufficient distance from people and crowded places
• Never fly in no-fly zones, check the drone map beforehand!

Go ‘prepared’ drone flying

You can imagine that in winter sports areas, extra controls are carried out on the use of drones. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the current drone rules and adhere to them. You will learn everything for using your drone correctly and all drone rules in the EU Drone License training. Even if you take a very light drone on winter sports, it might be smart to get at least the A1-A3 certificate.