At an airfield or a heliport, UAS operations within the radius defined in Annex E of the Austrian Aviation Rules 2014 (LVR 2014) around the aerodrome reference point are generally only permitted outside of operational hours.

The operational hours of airfields and heliports can be found in the Austrian Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP Austria) for each individual aerodrome.

According to the current provisions of the Austrian Aviation Rules 2014, an approval for flights within heliports can only be issued for LO R 15 (Vienna).
 

The revised Austrian Aviation Rules Regulation (LVR) 2014 was published on 14 February 2025 in the Federal Law Gazette II No. 17/2025 and will enter into force on 15 May 2025.
 
This update clarifies existing provisions and aligns them with current operational requirements. Particularly relevant are the changes regarding the operation of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) near airfields and heliports (formerly referred to as uncontrolled aerodromes).
 
From 15 May 2025, UAS operations within a defined radius around such aerodromes are generally only permitted outside of their operational hours.
 
Before conducting a flight, drone operators must check the current operational hours of the aerodrome – either via aviation-specific publications (e.g. AIP, NOTAM) or directly from the aerodrome operator or management.
 
During operational hours, drone operations are only permitted under the following conditions:
 
  • By recognised emergency and rescue organisations, health services, or disaster management authorities, provided the mission falls within their legal responsibilities.
  • With an operational authorisation under the “specific” category in accordance with EU Regulation 2019/947, if the risk assessment covers operations near airfields or heliports.
  • With a Light UAS Operator Certificate (LUC) in accordance with EU Regulation 2019/947, if it permits operations in the aerodrome environment.
  • With an authorisation under Article 16 of EU Regulation 2019/947, provided all relevant conditions and requirements are met.

 

Airfields are displayed as orange circles in the Austro Control Dronespace System:
 
Map of Austria highlighting flight restriction zones (blue) and additional areas (orange) from the Austro Control Dronespace system – overview of drone no-fly and restricted zones.