Agricultural drones in the EU

EASA category for agricultural drones

Most agricultural drones (spraying, mapping, monitoring) exceed 25 kg MTOM and fall into the Specific category. Even lighter models may require Specific authorisation if payloads, night operations or BVLOS are involved.

Mapping drones used for survey work more often fit A2/A3 if flights stay far from people. Check your specific aircraft's classification against the planned operation's parameters.

STS options for agriculture

STS-01 can be used in agricultural settings where flight over people in a controlled ground area is needed — for example during field operations with observers present. STS-02 covers BVLOS corridor missions.

For spraying drones in Spain, check Specific-category requirements — spraying is a specific operation that may require additional environmental permits.

Additional permits for agriculture

Pesticide spraying by drone requires not only an aviation authorisation but also environmental agency and agriculture ministry approval. Each EU country has its own regulatory framework.

Coordinate with the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture and AESA if planning spraying operations. A separate permit and a list of approved products may be required.

Required licence level

For mapping: A2 is often sufficient if weight is <4 kg and flights are far from people. For spraying: Specific category with a SORA risk assessment.

Before purchasing a large agricultural drone, consult AESA — permits can involve several months of documentation preparation.

Preguntas frecuentes

Is pesticide spraying by drone permitted in Spain?

Regulation is evolving — check AESA and Ministry of Agriculture guidance for the latest rules. In principle it is possible under Specific category with the appropriate permits.

Does an agricultural drone need a special licence?

It depends on the aircraft and operation. Mapping may require only A2; spraying typically requires Specific category and additional permits.