Flying a drone in Greece - key rules and restrictions

Flying a drone in Greece is possible, but requires knowledge of current European regulations and Greek national regulations. In addition to the basic rules that apply throughout the European Union, it is necessary to take into account restrictions arising from the protection of cultural heritage, the presence of military infrastructure and numerous controlled zones. In the following blog, you will learn the most important rules in Greece.

Can you fly a drone in Greece?

Yes, you can fly a drone in Greece, however, the operator must comply with both european regulations introduced by EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency), as well as local guidelines of the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA). The requirements vary depending on the category of flight, the type of equipment and the area in which the operation is carried out.

Among the most important conditions are:

• operator registration obligation,
  
• maintaining maximum flight altitude,
  
• avoiding flights over third parties,
  
• ban on flying near archaeological sites, military bases and airfields,
  
• obligation to have a certificate of competence (in certain cases).

What regulations apply to drone operators in Greece?

Drone operators in Greece operate under the EU's drone regulations, which divide the flights into three main categories: open, special and certified. Most tourists and recreational flight enthusiasts use the open category, which does not require prior authorization but imposes a number of restrictions.

Drone flight categories applicable in Greece

• Open category - For low-risk flights, without the need for approval.
  
• Special category - includes operations requiring risk analysis and authorization.
  
• Certified category - intended for high-risk applications (e.g., transportation of people).

In the open category, the m.in.:

• maximum flight altitude: 120 meters,
  
• the obligation to keep the drone in sight,
  
• a ban on flying over gatherings of people,
  
• the requirement to maintain a safe distance from people and buildings.

What are the subcategories of the open category?

The open category is divided into three subcategories: A1, A2, and A3. Choosing the right one depends on the weight of the drone and the planned nature of the flight.

A1 - flights near people

• Drones up to 250g can fly over bystanders (but not over a gathering).
  
• Operator registration is required if the device has a camera.
  
• Flights must not endanger the safety of third parties.

A2 - flying close to people, keeping a distance

• Drones weighing up to 4 kg.
  
• Minimum distance from people: 30 meters (or 5 meters with speed limit).
  
• Online training, self-practice and passing the theory exam required.

A3 - flights away from people

• Drones weighing up to 25 kg.
  
• Flights possible only in open areas, keeping a minimum of 150 meters from buildings and people.
  
• Mandatory registration and basic training.

Does flying a drone in Greece require registration?

Yes, operator registration is mandatory mostly. This requirement applies to persons piloting devices weighing more than 250 g or equipped with a camera, regardless of weight. Registration is done through the national system appropriate to the operator's place of residence - if the user already has an active UAV operator number assigned in Poland, he does not need to repeat the procedure in Greece.

What the registration process looks like?

• Registration is done online through the system of the aviation authority of an EU member state.
• Once registration is complete, a unique operator number is generated, which must be placed on the device.
• It is also required to take an online training course and obtain the relevant certificate (depending on the category of flight).

Where not to fly a drone in Greece?

The flight ban is in effect in many places due to the protection of historical monuments, aviation safety and state interests. The list of areas excluded from UAV traffic is extensive and includes m.in.:

• archaeological sites (e.g., Acropolis, Delphi, Knossos),
  
• the vicinity of airports and seaports,
  
• military bases and other strategic facilities,
  
• areas under environmental protection (e.g., Samaria National Park),
  
• crowded beaches, boardwalks and city centers during the summer season.

Failure to comply with the ban could result in severe penalties, including a fine or even confiscation of equipment.

What are the penalties for violations?

Greek services can impose financial penalties in the event of:

• flight in the forbidden zone,
  
• lack of operator registration,
  
• filming of monuments without permission,
  
• exceeding the allowed flight altitude,
  
• flying without the required qualifications.

Fines can range from several hundred to tens of thousands of euros. In addition, the equipment may be seized as evidence in administrative or criminal proceedings.

How to fly a drone safely in Greece?

Safe use of a drone requires following a few basic rules that reduce the risk of incidents and conflicts with the law.

Practical recommendations:

• Always check current airline restrictions before flying.
  
• Keep your drone in sight.
  
• Do not fly over people, gatherings or vehicles.
  
• Avoid flying in high winds (a common occurrence in Greece, especially on the islands).
  
• Secure your data - use encryption and don't send material over unsecured links.
  
• Remember to maintain privacy - don't film third parties without their permission.

Summary

Greece is a member of the European Union, so much of the legislation should already be familiar to us. It is worth focusing on general principles and practical recommendations. Make the appropriate authorizations, if you already have an active UAV operator number assigned in Poland, you do not need to repeat the procedure. It is also worth paying special attention to individual Greek air zones.