Geo-zone at the Experimental Test Center creates opportunities for UAS test flights

Special regulation for drone operation in Cochstedt

When it comes to the keyword „Geographical Zones“, most UAS operators primarily associate restrictions. And not entirely without reason. However, it is often overlooked that the relevant European drone regulations also offer opportunities for simplified drone operation. Opportunities that are now being utilized at the Experimental Test Center for Unmanned Aerial Systems at Magdeburg-Cochstedt Airport.

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    UAS test flights with heavy drones beyond the visual line of sight. While this may sound like it involves significant approval processes, it is expected to become comparatively straightforward at the Experimental Test Center for Unmanned Aerial Systems operated by the German Aerospace Center (DLR) in Cochstedt in the future. Thanks to a permanently established geo-zone established by the Federal Ministry of Transport, drone flights in a several-square-kilometer area are exempt from several requirements that would otherwise be required in the „Open“ operational category. This means that mission profiles, which typically fall under the „Specific“ category, can be carried out in Cochstedt under simplified conditions of the open category. For example, BVLOS flights, UAS operations above 120 meters, or test scenarios involving unmanned aircraft with a maximum takeoff weight exceeding 25 kilograms. For all of these, there is no longer a need to obtain an operational permit from the Federal Aviation Office (LBA) responsible for Saxony-Anhalt. Instead, operators must comply with the guidelines of a „Declaration of UAS Operator for the Use of the Geographical Zone“ created for the geo-zone. These are based on a risk assessment developed by DLR and reviewed by the LBA.

    The regulation is based on Article 15 (2) of European Implementing Regulation 2019/947, which is incorporated into German national law by Section 21h (4) of the German Air Traffic Regulations. Accordingly, the competent authorities can define specific geographic areas and establish operational details for unmanned aircraft within them. This also allows for certain reliefs or additional options to be created.

    Image: LBA


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