To aid drone operators, we created the GoDrone app and accompanying website that shows you by means of a drone map of the Netherlands where you can and cannot fly. The app also provides information about restrictions and/or exceptions that apply in certain areas. Professional drone pilots can also use the app to request permission for a drone mission in the CTR. Download the app free of charge in either the App Store or Google Play.
New European legislation for drone flights is in force per December 31st 2020. This legislation no longer distinguishes between professional and recreational drone operations. Drone operations are now divided into categories, depending on their respective risk to people and possessions. The Netherlands have additional legislation pertaining to drone operations in the so-called ‘open category’: the Regeling onbemande luchtvaartuigen and the Regeling zonering onbemande luchtvaartuigen.
Please note: Per December 31st 2020 the Regeling modelvliegen only applies to flying model airplanes at a model plane club.
Until January 1st 2022 a transition period is in force for professional drone operators. During this period you can fly your drone according the old regime:
Professional drone operators with full ROC
Professional drone operators without full ROC
See the Government of the Netherlands’ website for more information. Also see the Q&A on the new regulations (in Dutch).
Drones are also called remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS). For RPAS operations in the CTR the following rules apply:
Flights with drones in the open category are no longer permitted in the CTR.
In the CTR you will find an RPAS-area and an RPAS-prohibited area. Click on the airport names below to see detailed maps of these areas, including the RPAS-area and RPAS-prohibited area.
Mode S transponder is mandatory, unless a formal exemption is granted to the RPAS operator. This exemption may be granted by the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate (Inspectie Leefomgeving en Transport (ILT)).
An RPAS operator may file a request for an exemption. In order to do so, the operator states and proves by means of the Operational Handbook, that all possible technical, procedural and human failures are mitigated sufficiently. These mitigation measures may exist of independent and/or redundant technical, procedural of human safety measures.
After approval by ILT of the Operational Handbook, including the possible mitigation measures, an exemption may be granted to the RPAS operator.
You need to request a NOTAM if your professional drone flight:
For all drone flights in the CTR a NOTAM will be issued.
Click here for the NOTAM request form (in Dutch). The Operational Help Desk will review the request. If a NOTAM is not necessary, we will inform you accordingly.