Current Drone Flight Regulations in France and Europe: Overview and Perspectives

Current Regulations in France

Since January 1, 2021, France has been applying the European regulations concerning civil drones, thus harmonizing the rules within the European Union. This regulation classifies drone operations into three main categories based on the level of risk :

Open Category : Intended for low-risk operations, it is divided into three subcategories:

• A1 : Flights close to people are allowed for drones of class C0 and C1 (less than 900g).

• A2 : Flights up to 30 meters from people, or 5 meters with the “low-speed” mode, for drones of class C2 (less than 4kg).

• A3 : Flights more than 150 meters away from residential, commercial, industrial, or recreational areas for drones of classes C3 and C4 (less than 25kg).

Specific Category : For operations presenting a higher risk, requiring prior authorization from the competent authority.

Certified Category : Concerning high-risk operations, similar to manned aviation, and subject to strict requirements.

In France, certain national restrictions still apply, such as the prohibition of night flights in the Open Category and flights in public spaces within urban areas.

Although European regulations aim for harmonization, differences remain between member states. For instance, in France, flying in urban areas is prohibited in the Open Category, whereas in other European countries, flying in subcategory A2 with a class C2 drone is permitted, provided that safety distances are respected.

Recent and Upcoming Regulatory Developments

In 2024, the European regulation introduced the requirement for drones to carry a CE marking indicating their class (C0 to C6). This measure aims to enhance safety and simplify drone operations across the European Union.

Starting January 1, 2026, French national scenarios (S1, S2, S3) will be replaced by standardized European scenarios (STS-01 and STS-02). Operators will have until December 31, 2025, to complete this transition, which involves acquiring drones compliant with the new C5 or C6 classes and updating their operations manuals.

Skills Required to Pilot a Drone

To work as a drone remote pilot, several key skills are essential:

• Piloting skills : Proficiency in flight techniques and controlling the aircraft.

• Knowledge of aviation regulations : Understanding the laws and directives in effect regarding drone use.

• Mastery of IT tools and specific software : Ability to use navigation, flight planning, and data processing software.

• Adaptability and organizational skills : Ability to plan missions based on weather conditions and operational constraints.

• Observation skills : High level of vigilance to detect obstacles and ensure flight safety.

• Communication skills : Ability to effectively interact with clients and relevant authorities.

To acquire these skills and obtain the necessary certifications, it is almost essential to undergo training with a specialized school.

La Nouvelle Ecole, a training center based in Paris, offers state-recognized training to become a professional drone remote pilot, compliant with European Regulation 2019/947.

This comprehensive training, which can be 100% funded through continuing education schemes, allows participants to obtain the Certificate of Theoretical Aptitude for Remote Pilots (CATS), which is essential for legally operating in both the open and specific categories.

The program consists of two parts:

• An e-learning section, available online 24/7, to master theoretical fundamentals: regulations, safety, weather, navigation, flight mechanics, etc.

• A practical section, supervised by an instructor, to learn how to pilot a drone in real conditions, perform complex maneuvers, and simulate professional missions (S-1, S-2, and S-3 scenarios).