Drones in the mountains A look to the skies – with responsibility and foresight
The mountains – a place of peace, nature, and breathtaking views. Those who come here want not only to enjoy this beauty, but often to take a piece of it home. And what could be better suited for that than a drone, capturing spectacular shots from a bird’s-eye view?
But as tempting as it may sound to fly over the peaks, there are clear rules in the Austrian Alps. So, are drones allowed in the mountains? The answer, as so often, is a charming “Yes, but …”
You should know that:
1. Fly responsibly – respect nature and people Do not disturb animals: Wildlife and grazing animals often react sensitively to drones – especially during breeding season. In the Sölktäler Nature Park, and particularly in bird protection areas, flying is often strictly prohibited.
Protect people: Other hikers have a right to peace and privacy. Never fly over uninvolved individuals and respect privacy laws – filming without permission is a no-go.
2. Wind and weather – challenges at high altitude: In the mountains, the air is thinner, which reduces drone performance. Strong winds can also make controlling the drone more difficult. Only fly in good weather conditions and keep an eye on flight time, as batteries drain faster at altitude.
3. Maintain visual line of sight: Even in the mountains, you must always keep your drone in sight. This allows you to react promptly to sudden wind, potential collisions, or signal loss.
4. Share the airspace – helicopters, paragliders & more: Alpine regions often have rescue helicopters, gliders, and paragliders in the air. Always watch the skies and maintain a safe distance – when in doubt, land the drone.
5. Technical skill is crucial in mountainous terrain: In steep or obstructed areas, judging flight height can be tricky. The maximum allowed altitude is 120 meters above ground – flying higher requires a special permit.Tip: Practice flying your drone in simple terrain before venturing into alpine regions.
6. Don’t forget the legal framework: Since the end of 2020, a unified EU drone regulation applies. For most drones, you need:
- Online registration as an operator,
- An e-ID (digital identification),
- And often a small drone pilot certificate.
More information is available at: Austro Control
What does the law say?
The legal framework in the alps:
Basic rules of the EU regulation
Since the end of 2020, a unified drone regulation has applied across the EU. Drones are now classified not only by weight but also by their purpose and potential risk to others.
Key rules:
- Registration: Anyone operating a drone weighing 250 g or more must register – in Austria, this is done via Austro Control.
- Authorization: Operating drones equipped with cameras requires authorization – also through Austro Control. Additionally, flying drones with a take-off weight of 250 g or more requires a drone pilot certificate. For drones in the “Open” category, no separate authorization is required.
- Drone pilot certificate: Anyone flying drones in the “Open” category (subcategories A1, A2, A3) weighing 250 g or more must hold a drone pilot certificate. This usually consists of an online course and an online test, which can be completed at www.dronespace.at. The certificate must be carried during every flight, either digitally (e.g., on a phone) or in printed form, and is valid for five years.
- “Open” category: Most recreational flights fall into the Open category, depending on risk. There are three subcategories: A1, A2, and A3.
- Mountain use: Mostly relevant is A3 – flying far from uninvolved people and away from towns and settlements.
- Maximum allowed altitude: 120 meters
- Continuous visual contact: You must maintain direct line of sight with the drone (without technical aids).
- Safe distance from people: Maintain sufficient safety distance at all times.
More information and practical examples can be found here
National Regulations – Nature Conservation
In Austria, in addition to EU regulations, national rules apply - especially regarding nature conservation. And here, it gets serious: Not everything that is technically possible is legally allowed.
Important notes:
- Flight bans in nature reserves: In many protected areas, the use of drones is explicitly prohibited—and for good reason. Drone noise can disturb sensitive ecosystems, especially breeding grounds or wildlife refuges. (e.g., Nature Park Sölktäler)
- Bird protection areas such as the Niedere Tauern: In areas like the Niedere Tauern (e.g., Natura 2000 sites: Wörschacher Moos and areas near the Enns River), which are protected under EU bird conservation directives, flying should generally be avoided—to protect rare species such as golden eagles or black grouse, which can be severely disturbed by drones.
- Obtaining permits: Anyone who absolutely must film in a sensitive area must contact the relevant state government or the protected area management—however, obtaining a permit is the exception rather than the rule.
- And very importantly: Just because an area seems remote does not mean it is “open for flying.” Peace and quiet are often the most valuable assets in these landscapes—for both humans and wildlife.
