Drones & gear

FPV drones: licence and rules in Europe

Flying with goggles does not remove the need for an A1/A3 certificate and registration where applicable.

A2STS editorial26 min read

Contents

1. FPV defined

First Person View flying — popular for racing, freestyle and cinewhoop. Regulation does not relax for goggles.

2. VLOS and spotter

Open category requires pilot or visual observer to keep the aircraft in sight. Goggles alone are not VLOS.

3. Registration

Over 250 g with camera — register with your NAA. Custom builds counted at take-off mass with equipment.

4. Digital FPV ecosystem

Walksnail, HDZero, DJI O4 — same licence rules. See comparison guides in the hub.

Frequently asked questions

Can I fly goggles-only?
Open category needs VLOS — typically a visual observer.
Does Avata 2 need A2?
A1/A3 is enough for most hobby FPV use.

Authority & sources

A2STS Editorial · Reviewed by: EASA UAS syllabus aligned