The EU is continuously developing drone legislation to promote safety, efficiency and innovation. Here are some important updates and expected changes for industrial drone use in 2024 and 2025:
1. Tightening drone regulations and new licensing systems
The EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency) further clarify the regulations for the operation of drones, especially for industrial and commercial users. From 2024:
- New licensing requirements will be for larger drones (over 500 g) that operate in densely populated areas.
- Remote identification will be mandatory (“Remote ID”) for most professional drones, making it easier for aviation authorities to control.
- Unified Airspace Management System (U-Space) gradual introduction in several EU countries, which will enable automated and safe drone flights in urban and industrial environments.
2. The role of drones in the construction industry – subsidies and incentives
The EU has many innovation and digitalization support provides support for the development and application of industrial drones, especially in the construction industry.
- The "EU Digital Europe" and "Horizon Europe" programs fund the development and integration of automated drone systems into construction processes.
- In some countries tax breaks and subsidies are available to contractors who use drones for more efficient construction inspection and environmental compliance.
3. New rules on drone footage and data protection
Aerial footage taken with drones is also receiving increasing attention from a data protection perspective.
- The EU GDPR regulation according to observations and data collection carried out with drones they must be transparentand those affected must be informed in advance.
- In drone footage of construction projects masking out certain sensitive data (e.g. persons, license plates, private areas) may be mandatory in some countries.
What does this mean for general contractors and industrial drone users?
✔ If you are using drones on construction sites, it is a good idea to check local regulations and licensing requirements in advance.
✔ Digital construction and automated monitoring systems may receive support from the EU, so it is worth keeping an eye on application opportunities.
✔ Privacy and security will become an increasingly important consideration when conducting construction surveys using drones.
What else might be interesting as a drone user
The European Union is constantly developing regulations for drones to ensure safe and efficient use of airspace. Below I have collected the latest changes and expected regulations, which affect industrial drone users, construction contractors and drone operators.
1. The use of “Tagged” drones will be mandatory from 2024
Entry into force: January 1, 2024
What does this mean?
- Only drones with a CE mark can be placed on the market and put into service as new in the EU.
- The old one, unlabeled drones can still be used after 2024, but From 2026 only limitedly, in the subcategory A3 of the “Open” category (in a non-residential area, away from people).
- The Over 500 g Drones (e.g. DJI Phantom, Mavic 3, etc.) must meet stricter operating requirements.
Who does it apply to?
- All for a new drone-using business and construction companywho carry out aerial surveys, mapping or inspections.
2. U-Space: Regulation of EU drone airspace (2024-2025)
What does U-Space mean?
- The U-Space is a new airspace management system tailored for drones, which automated and permitted drone flights makes it possible in densely populated areas and industrial zones.
- From 2024, several EU countries (e.g. Germany, France, Netherlands) have started designating U-Space areas.
How does this affect contractors?
- For construction drones access to airspace could become easier, but Flight authorization through U-Space providers will be mandatory.
- It can also be expected in Hungary from 2025, especially around Budapest and larger industrial zones!
3. Making Remote ID mandatory
What does this mean?
- For the new drones with built-in "Remote ID" identification system must have a system that broadcasts drone data in real time (e.g. position, ID, operator information).
- This helps authorities and air traffic control in tracking drones and detecting illegal flights.
Who is affected?
- All commercial and industrial drone operator, especially those who working in urban or industrial air spaces (construction surveys, infrastructure inspection, etc.).
🔹 4. Tightening data protection regulations for drone footage
What's new:
- GDPR and aerial surveillance: The European Data Protection Board has issued new guidelines on how Under what conditions can drones be used to take pictures in public and private areas?
- New rule: If a drone records people's faces, license plates, or other personal data, then the prior information and, if applicable, permission required.
What should be done?
- For construction and industrial drone photography it is worth paying attention to blurring and data protection information.
- You should also check the regulations of your local data protection authorities., as there may be differences from country to country.
Summary: What does this mean for industrial drone users?
✔ Only CE-labeled drones can be purchased and sold from 2024.
✔ From 2026, the use of old, untagged drones will be restricted.
✔ The introduction of U-Space could make it easier for industrial drones to access airspace, but new permits will be required.
✔ Remote ID becomes mandatory, so all drones must be identifiable in the air.
✔ Data protection regulations are becoming stricter, and more attention must be paid to GDPR compliance when handling drone footage.