Model aircraft permit; application

In certain cases, you require a permit to operate an unmanned aircraft as part of an air sports association

The generic term "unmanned aircraft" refers to unmanned aerial systems, colloquially known as "drones" and model aircraft. Unmanned aerial systems include, for example, quadro/hexa/octocopters for commercial photography, advertising airships, but also model airplanes if they are used for commercial purposes.

If they are used for sport or leisure purposes, they are considered model aircraft. Legally, model aircraft and unmanned aerial systems are largely treated equally as unmanned aerial vehicles.

Since December 31, 2020, the Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/947 on the rules and procedures for the operation of unmanned aircraft has generally applied to the operation of unmanned aircraft. In addition, some provisions of national law for the operation of model aircraft must also be observed (in particular Section 21 f of the German Air Traffic Regulations (LuftVO)).

If the operation of model aircraft takes place within the framework of air sports associations, a permit is required for model aircraft

1. with a take-off mass of more than 12 kilograms,
2. with rocket propulsion, if the mass of the propellant is more than 20 g,
3. with an internal combustion engine, which are operated at a distance of less than 1.5 km from residential areas

In addition, the operation of all model aircraft at night within the meaning of Article 2 sentence 2 number 34 of Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/947 requires a permit.

Permission in accordance with 1. and the operation of model aircraft at night is generally permitted by general ruling. The general rulings of the Government of Upper Bavaria - Air Office of Southern Bavaria and the Government of Middle Franconia - Air Office of Northern Bavaria can be found under "Legal bases".
For a permit according to 3. you will find the corresponding application under "Forms"
The application for a permit according to 2. must be submitted informally.

If the operation takes place within the framework of air sports associations, remote pilots of model aircraft with a take-off mass of more than 2 kg must also take part in a training course organized by the air sports association in accordance with Section 21 f (2) LuftVO.

1. the use and safe control of the model aircraft operated
2. the relevant principles of aviation law and
3. the local airspace regulations

are demonstrated.

If the operation does not take place within the framework of air sports associations, operation within the framework of the Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/947 in the open category is also possible as an alternative. The requirements and conditions of the respective subcategory A1, A2 or A3 must be complied with.

Regardless of whether the operation is carried out in accordance with LuftVO or Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/947, Section 21 h (3) LuftVO must be observed (operation in geographical areas)

Permit according to § 21 f Abs. 4 LuftVO: 50,00 - 3.500,00 EUR