EASA Drone Regulations Update 2026: Open Category Changes for FPV Pilots
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) continues to evolve its drone regulatory framework, and 2026 brings important updates that directly affect FPV pilots across all 27 EU member states plus Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. Whether you are racing at a local MultiGP chapter or capturing cinematic footage in the Alps, understanding the current EASA rules is essential for legal and safe operation.
The Three Categories: A Refresher
EASA divides drone operations into three categories under EU Regulation 2019/947. The Open Category covers low-risk operations that do not require prior authorization — this is where most recreational and hobbyist FPV flights fall. The Specific Category requires operational authorization based on a risk assessment (SORA) and applies to flights that exceed Open Category limitations. The Certified Category is for high-risk operations like carrying passengers or flying over dense urban crowds. FPV pilots will spend almost all their time in the Open Category.
Open Category Subcategories: Finding Your Place
The Open Category is further divided into three subcategories — A1, A2, and A3 — based on drone weight and proximity to people. Subcategory A1 allows flight over uninvolved people (but not crowds) with drones under 900 grams that meet specific technical standards. Subcategory A2 requires operation at a safe distance from people — at least 30 meters horizontally or 5 meters in low-speed mode — with a minimum competency certificate. Subcategory A3 is for operations far from people and urban areas, with no flight allowed within 150 meters of residential, commercial, industrial, or recreational areas.
FPV-Specific Rules: The Observer Requirement
The most impactful rule for FPV pilots is the mandatory observer requirement. Under EASA regulations, FPV flight is classified as “flight with visual aids” and requires an unmanned aircraft observer who must maintain direct visual line of sight (VLOS) with the drone at all times. The observer must stand next to the pilot and be able to communicate without electronic aids. This rule exists because the FPV pilot’s view through goggles does not provide the situational awareness needed to see-and-avoid other aircraft, as required by the standard rules of the air under SERA.3210. Solo FPV flight without an observer is technically not compliant under current EASA rules, though enforcement varies significantly by member state.
2026 Updates: Remote ID and Geo-Awareness
As of January 2026, EASA has mandated Direct Remote Identification (DRI) for all drones operating in the Open Category, regardless of weight class. This mirrors the FAA’s approach in the United States. Drones must broadcast their registration number, position, altitude, and route course via a standardized protocol. For FPV builds, this means integrating a compatible broadcast module or flying drones that come with DRI built in. The standard is published in EN 4709-002, and compliant modules from European manufacturers are widely available.
Additionally, the 2026 update introduces mandatory geo-awareness functionality for all drones sold in the EU market after January 1, 2026. This means new drones must have the capability to warn pilots when they approach restricted airspace. Existing drones are grandfathered but any new build using components purchased after the effective date should include this capability where feasible.
Competency Requirements: A1/A3 and A2 Certificates
To fly in the Open Category, you need at minimum an A1/A3 Open Subcategory Certificate. This requires passing a free online theoretical exam administered by your national aviation authority. The test covers air safety, privacy, insurance, and operational procedures. For A2 subcategory operations, you need the additional A2 Certificate of Competency, which requires a practical self-training declaration and a more comprehensive theoretical exam. Both certificates are valid for five years and are recognized across all EASA member states under mutual recognition provisions.
Insurance and Registration
Every drone operator in the EU must register with their national aviation authority and display their operator registration number on their drone. Liability insurance is mandatory in most member states — check your local requirements as minimum coverage amounts vary. Third-party liability insurance for hobby drone operations is typically inexpensive (€30-60 per year) and many FPV organizations offer discounted group policies to members.
Stay current by regularly checking the EASA Drones & Air Mobility page and your national aviation authority’s website. Regulations evolve, and it is your responsibility to fly within them.