2021 ushered in a new era for drone users as new regulations introduced a more detailed and stricter regime. The main points of the new framework are outlined below, and the topic is discussed in more detail in our article here:
- Drones and drone operators must be registered: All types of drones must be registered in Hungary except toy drones. In addition, drone operators and drone owners are obliged to be registered, too.
- Drone operators must take an exam: To legally operate a drone, all drone operators must undergo a state-certified training programme and take an exam. Nevertheless, the details of the training programme, the certification of training centres and the exam requirements are still unclear.
- Use of airspace: Drones may be used above inhabited areas solely with a permit issued by the Ministry of Defence, in which a certain airspace is designated for the drone user temporarily. Drone operators must avoid no-fly and no-drone zones by using a government-maintained mobile application. However, the government decree regulating the mobile application and its usage has not been published yet.
- New fines and criminal consequences: An aviation fine of up to HUF 100,000,000 (approx. EUR 280,000) may be imposed for violations of drone usage rules. Unauthorised recording of sound or images from dwellings and other premises qualifies as a misdemeanor leading to confinement. If the unauthorised recording occurs repeatedly, the punishment may include imprisonment of up to one year.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.