Air traffic control clearance
Entering control zones (geographical zones within the meaning of section 21h(3)(9) of LuftVO) is only permitted if an air traffic control clearance within the meaning of section 21 of LuftVO has been obtained.
Control zones
Control zones are, among other things, geographical zones where the operation of drones is only possible to a limited degree. This usually applies to airspace immediately surrounding airports or aerodromes whose flight zone is controlled by air traffic controllers. Restricting drone operations in control zones helps ensure the safety of manned aviation.
Whether a certain area is located within a control zone can be checked using the Map Tool.
Application for air traffic control clearance
If the selected flight zone is located within a control zone, a drone may only enter this zone after obtaining air traffic control clearance from the competent air traffic control centre. Depending on where the drone is to be brought into use, the responsibility for processing applications lies with the local aerodrome control services or, for the following international commercial airports, with the German Air Navigation Services (DFS):
Berlin-Brandenburg, Bremen, Düsseldorf, Dresden, Erfurt, Frankfurt/Main, Hamburg, Hanover, Cologne/Bonn, Leipzig/Halle, Munich, Münster/Osnabrück, Nuremberg, Saarbrücken and Stuttgart
Further information on drone operation near airports can be found on the DFS Webpage. To apply for air traffic control clearance for operating a drone near other airports, please contact the local aerodrome control services.
Air traffic control clearance for the above airports can be applied for via the DFS online application form.
In addition, there is a general order issued by DFS Deutsche Flugsicherung GmbH, Austro Control GmbH and DFS Aviation Services GmbH to issue air traffic control clearances for flights with flight models and unmanned aeronautical systems in control zones . Air traffic control clearances shall be deemed to have been granted if the conditions set out therein are complied with.
An overview of the general ruling can be downloaded here (german only, as of 12/07/2024):