Drones

Before buying: the legal framework is not optional

This is the most important part of this page, and it deserves reading before anything else.

In Greece, as across the European Union, drone use is governed by European regulation and overseen by the Civil Aviation Authority. The basic obligations that apply to almost every operator:

Operator registration. Most drones require registration and, depending on the category, an online examination to obtain a certificate.

Where it is prohibited. Near airports, over military installations, at archaeological sites without permission, over gatherings of people, and in designated restricted zones. Restrictions around archaeological sites in Greece are stricter than visitors assume.

How you fly. Within visual line of sight, below a specified altitude, away from uninvolved people.

Privacy. Recording people or private spaces without consent raises data protection issues, independently of the flight rules.

The provisions are updated. Check what currently applies with the Civil Aviation Authority before flying — the fines are not symbolic.

Which category of drone for whom

HoverAir. The fast-growing category: small, light drones that take off from your palm and follow you. You do not pilot them — you send them to record. For activity video, without learning to fly.

DJI. The standard in hobby and semi-professional aerial imaging. Better camera, greater range, more control.

Autel. Professionally oriented — inspections, survey work, technical applications.

The realistic rule: if you want video of yourself doing something, portable. If you want aerial photography, a drone with a serious camera.

The practical points that save a drone

Wind is the enemy. On Greek coasts, gusts are the most common cause of loss. A light drone in a strong meltemi does not come back — and the stated wind resistance is a limit, not a suggestion.

Compass calibration. Before every flight in a new location. Skipping it is among the most common causes of erratic behaviour.

Return-to-home check. Set the home point and make sure the return altitude is above every obstacle — tree, cable, building.

Batteries. Flight time is a few minutes. You need a second and third, and they are stored at around half charge — not full, not empty.

A fast memory card, for high-resolution video.

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