Maximum drone flight height in Spain: the 120 m limit

The normal maximum height for flying a drone in Spain is 120 m. That limit comes from the open category, which is the one set by European regulations for low-risk flights and the one AESA applies in Spain. In this category you do not need any authorisation or to submit a declaration before taking off. You do, however, have to meet certain conditions, and height is only one of them.

How the open category is divided

The open category is divided into three subcategories: A1, A2 and A3. What changes between them is how close you can fly to people.

Flying near people

In A1, drones under 250 g and those carrying the C0 label may fly over people who are not involved in the flight. C1 drones must avoid doing so. And there is one thing A1 always prohibits, whatever the drone: flying over assemblies of people.

Keeping your distance from people

In A2 you may only fly drones carrying the C2 label. Under the European rules, you must keep a horizontal distance of at least 30 m from people who are not involved.

Flying far from everything

In A3 you fly far away from everything. The European rules require a minimum distance of 150 m from residential, commercial, industrial or recreational areas, and that no uninvolved person is put at risk.

The training you need

And what training do you need? It depends on the drone. If it weighs less than 250 g or carries the C0 label, it is enough to know the manufacturer's manual well. Even so, AESA recommends getting the A1/A3 certificate. If it is a C1 or weighs more, that certificate is compulsory. You get it through a free online course and exam from AESA: 40 questions, 40 minutes and at least 75% correct answers to pass. The certificate is valid for 5 years.

Minimum age

As for age, the European regulation sets a minimum of sixteen years in the open category. In Spain, Royal Decree 517/2024 lowers that age in some cases.

Stock photograph about drone flight height.

Insurance

One thing remains: insurance. Every flight must be covered by suitable insurance. You do not need a permanent policy.

What to do now

What to do now. Look at the underside of the drone and on the box. Does it carry a C0, C1 or C2 label? Does it weigh less than 250 g? With that answer you will know which subcategory it fits into and what training applies to you. Then go to the AESA website and check whether you need to register as an operator. If you need the A1/A3 certificate, the course and the exam are online and free. And if what you are after is aerial footage for a wedding or a corporate event in Gijón or elsewhere in Asturias, Evan & Natalia Simon do photography and video for couples and brands. A chat with them costs nothing.

Links

More useful links: seguridadaerea.gob.es, seguridadaerea.gob.es, seguridadaerea.gob.es.