Regulation (EU) 2019/947 is the primary EU rule governing the operation of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in the Open and Specific categories. It defines three Open subcategories (A1, A2, A3), qualification requirements for remote pilots, and operator registration obligations.
Open category
UAS operations in the Open category may be conducted without a prior authorisation, provided the operator and remote pilot comply with the applicable subcategory rules. Three subcategories apply:
- A1 — fly over people; UAS ≤ 250 g or C1 class; VLOS required.
- A2 — keep safe horizontal distance from uninvolved persons; C2 class; VLOS required.
- A3 — away from residential, commercial, industrial and recreational areas; C3/C4 class; VLOS required.
Visual line of sight (VLOS)
All Open category operations require the remote pilot to maintain unaided visual contact with the UA at all times (Art. UAS.OPEN.060(3)). This allows the pilot to monitor flight path, avoid collisions, and maintain situation awareness.
Remote pilot competency
Open category remote pilots must obtain the appropriate competency level before flight (Art. UAS.OPEN.020, UAS.OPEN.040):
- A1/A3 — online self-study training + online knowledge test (at a recognised organisation's platform).
- A2 — A1/A3 certificate + additional theoretical exam + self-declared practical training.
Operator registration
UAS operators must register with the competent authority of their member state when operating in subcategories A1 (C1 class or above), A2, or A3. The registration number must be affixed to every UA operated.
Official source
The consolidated text is published on EUR-Lex. Always consult the official version for legal certainty.