Remote Pilot (Drone Operator)
A remote pilot (télépilote) operates unmanned aircraft (drones) professionally for activities such as aerial photography, surveying, inspection, or agriculture. This activity is regulated under the European EASA framework and French aviation rules administered by the DGAC.
You must pass a theoretical examination to obtain the remote pilot certificate. Depending on the operational category (open, specific, or certified), you may also need practical training and a competency attestation. Your drone operator business must be registered with the DGAC on the AlphaTango platform. Each drone must be registered, and you must carry liability insurance. Flights in restricted airspace require prior authorization from the relevant authority.
Required Qualifications
- Regulation: Subject to Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/947 of May 24, 2019
- Theoretical Exam: Certificate of successful completion of exam compliant with EU regulation
- Practical Training: Certificate of completion according to type of operations conducted
- Competency Certificate: Remote pilot competency certificate for certain operation categories
Procedure and Recognition
- Competent Authority: Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGAC)
- EU Recognition: Automatic recognition of qualifications issued within the European Union
- Non-EU Qualifications: Recognition of qualifications issued outside the EU not provided
- Certificate: Certificate compliant with Regulation (EU) 2019/947