Introduction of the new drone regulation off to a good start
In Switzerland, more than 46,000 remote pilots will have acquired a certificate of competence by 2023. The implementation of the European drone regulation in Switzerland is proceeding as expected.
Switzerland has been applying the drone regulations of the European Union (EU) for a year now. Since then, new regulations have applied to the operation of drones: Most remote pilots who wish to fly a drone must register and complete mandatory training. The licensing procedures for certain types of operation have also been changed.
Despite the challenging complexity of the new rules, drone operators have adapted to the requirements.
On December 31, 2023, 46,300 remote pilots had acquired the certificate of competence; almost 70,000 people or companies were on the platform www.uas.gate.bazl.admin.ch registered. The Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA) is satisfied with these figures, which continue to develop positively.
It is still too early to measure the impact on air traffic safety. However, the aim is to continuously improve the safety level of Swiss airspace. The FOCA therefore recommends that operators who do not require a certificate should at least complete the free online training course. This will familiarize them with the rules that apply to the use of drones.
Reporting system for security-relevant events
In the current year, the FOCA plans to raise awareness among remote pilots of their responsibility to report incidents. Like all other players in civil aviation, they are obliged to report safety-related incidents in air traffic. Even if this contribution is still marginal at present, it will ultimately lead to safety problems being identified at an early stage and the full potential of this instrument being exploited.
Source: FOCA
