Last reviewed: May 2026
EASA Drone Regulations 2026 – Complete Guide
Your annual reference for EU open-category rules, C-class drones, A2 and STS — and where national authorities fit in.
Last reviewed: May 2026
What's new in 2026
The core open-category framework (EU Regulations 2019/945 and 2019/947) remains unchanged in 2026. No major overhaul replaced A1/A3, A2 or STS structures this year.
National Aviation Authorities continue to refine exam portals, fees and geo-awareness integrations. Always confirm local NAA notices alongside EASA guidance.
The three operating categories
Open — low-risk recreational and many commercial flights (A1/A3, A2). Specific — higher-risk missions using STS or operational authorisations. Certified — aviation-level safety (rare for typical consumer drones).
Open category subcategories
| Subcategory | Max drone weight | Operations | Licence required |
|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | <250g (C0) / <900g (C1) | Over/near people (with limits) | A1/A3 |
| A2 | <4kg (C2) | 30m from people (5m low-speed) | A2 (+ A1/A3) |
| A3 | <25kg (C2–C4) | Away from populated areas | A1/A3 |
C-class certification explained
C0–C4 labels on drones sold in the EU show which open subcategory they support. C0/C1 suit A1, C2 is built for A2 distances, C3/C4 align with A3-style separation.
Legacy drones without C-class marking are subject to transitional limits (generally stricter distances until replaced or reclassified). From 2024 onward, new open-category aircraft placed on the market should carry appropriate class identification — verify on the compliance plate.
A2 licence requirements in 2026
Still: A1/A3 first, in-person 30-question exam, five-year validity, practical self-assessment. Details on our A2 exam page.
STS (Specific category) in 2026
Standard Scenarios (STS-01, STS-02, etc.) let qualified operators fly predefined missions without a full SORA study in some cases. See the STS exam guide.
NAA implementation — does it vary by country?
EASA sets the framework; each member state sets exam fees, booking portals and enforcement. Use our NAA finder for your country.
Key regulatory documents
- EU Regulation 2019/945 (drone design requirements)
- EU Regulation 2019/947 (operational rules)
- EASA Easy Access Rules for UAS (EASA website)
- A2STS regulations hub (EU overview + NAA links)
Frequently asked questions
- Do EASA drone rules apply in the UK after Brexit?
- The UK retained similar UAS rules under UK CAA oversight — not identical to EASA but conceptually aligned. EU-issued certificates are not automatically valid for UK commercial operations without UK compliance.
- Can I fly my drone in all EU countries with one EASA licence?
- Yes for open-category certificates issued in one EASA member state — they are recognised across the EASA system. Registration and operational limits still apply per country.
- What happens if I fly without a licence in the EU?
- Flying without required training or certificates can lead to fines, insurance invalidation and confiscation. Enforcement is national.
- Are there drone no-fly zones across EASA states?
- Yes — airports, military areas and temporary restrictions appear in national geo-awareness systems. Always check your NAA app before flight.
Looking for a different year? A 2025 edition may be published separately — this page is the canonical 2026 reference.