The provisions and requirements of Regulations (EU) 2019/947 and (EU) 2019/945 apply not only to conventional drones but also to model aircraft. There is no distinction between drones and model aircraft; instead, the unified terms UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System) or UA (Unmanned Aircraft) are used.
 
It is irrelevant whether the UAS is a quadcopter, helicopter, fixed-wing aircraft, or any other type of unmanned aerial vehicle.
 
In general, UAS operations are categorized into three operational categories: "Open", "Specific," and "Certified" . Due to the harmonization of regulations, these categories also apply to model aircraft. However, the "Certified" category can be disregarded in this context, as it is specifically intended for commercial operators of highly advanced UAS.
 
For the operation of model aircraft, only the "Open" and "Specific" categories are applicable.

 
"Open" Category Operations
For many model aircraft pilots, operating within the "Open" category is the simplest and most accessible option. As long as the limits of the "Open" category (weight, flight altitude, visual line of sight, airspace, distance) are respected, no prior operational authorization from Austro Control GmbH is required.
 
However, it is essential that:
 
The model aircraft pilot has completed the mandatory online course and passed the online exam for the A1/A3 remote pilot certificate (free of charge).
The operator of a model aircraft over 249 g is registered as a UAS operator, which currently costs €39.60 every three years.
 
The "Open" category is further divided into three subcategories: A1, A2, and A3. The following table provides an overview of what a remote pilot is allowed to do with a model aircraft in different environments and situations, along with the specific requirements.
 
Since many self-built model aircraft do not have a CIL (Class Identification Label), the A3 subcategory is particularly relevant for model aviation enthusiasts.
 
For example, in the A3 category, it is possible to operate model aircraft up to 25 kg at an altitude of up to 120 m in an open field, as long as the operation remains at least 150 meters away from residential, commercial, industrial, or recreational areas. No additional approval is required unless the location falls within special-use airspace or near an aerodrome.
 

Summary table of the OPEN category under EU drone regulations with subcategories A1, A2, and A3, including details on flight altitude, types of drones, registration requirements, and required drone pilot competencies.


You can check in advance whether there are any additional restrictions at your planned departure location beyond the previously mentioned limits of the "Open" category" (e.g., no-fly zones, controlled airspace, etc.) by using the digital map available or the Dronespace App.
Map section from the Austro Control Dronespace system showing a marked drone operation area in a non-geographically restricted zone, including a display panel for submitting a flight plan.

"Specific" Category Operations

If any of the requirements of the "Open" category are not met, the flight falls under the "Specific" category, requiring prior authorization from Austro Control. The "Specific" category allows operations such as:
 
  • Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) flights
  • UAS operations with aircraft exceeding 25 kg
  • Flights at altitudes exceeding 120 m above ground level

Registration & Authorization
Operators in the "Specific" category are also required to register as UAS operators. Before conducting operations in this category, authorization from Austro Control must be obtained. The necessary application forms are provided in the download section.
 
Simplified Procedures for Model Aircraft Associations
Since a standard "Specific" authorization involves a relatively complex approval process, EASA has introduced special provisions for model aircraft associations and clubs. These provisions allow model aircraft to be operated beyond the limits of the "Open" category without requiring a full "Specific" authorization.
 
For more details on this process, please refer to the official Austro Control guidelines.