A Filmmaker's Guide to Drone Filming Regulations in Greece

A Filmmaker's Guide to Drone Filming Regulations in Greece

Aerial shots can elevate a film from ordinary to extraordinary, and with landscapes as breathtaking as Greece's, a drone is an essential tool in any filmmaker's kit. However, navigating the Greece drone filming regulations is crucial to ensure your production stays on the right side of the law. This guide provides a clear overview of what you need to know before you fly.

The Legal Framework for Drones in Greece

As a member of the European Union, Greece adheres to the regulations established by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). This framework categorizes drone operations, and most professional filming activities fall into the 'Specific' category. This means you can't just launch your drone anywhere; you need an operational authorization from the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA).

All drone operators must be registered in an EU member state, and the remote pilot must hold the necessary EASA certifications to fly legally.

Key Steps to Legally Fly a Drone for Filming

To legally operate a drone for your film, you must complete the following steps:

1. Pilot Certification: Ensure your remote pilot has the required EASA certificates (A1/A3 and A2). 2. Drone Registration: The drone must be registered, and the operator's registration number must be clearly marked on the aircraft. 3. Operational Authorization: This is the most critical step. You must submit a detailed risk assessment (known as SORA) to the HCAA and receive operational authorization before you can begin filming. 4. Flight Plan Submission: Depending on the location and complexity of your flight, you may also need to submit a flight plan for approval.

Restricted Zones: Where You Can't Fly

Understanding no-fly zones is critical. Flying a drone is strictly prohibited in the following areas without special, hard-to-obtain permits:

• Archaeological Sites: Flying over sites like the Acropolis or Delphi is forbidden without a specific permit from the Ministry of Culture and Sports. These are notoriously difficult to secure.
• Sensitive Areas: No-fly zones exist around airports, military bases, government buildings, and other critical infrastructure.
• Private Property: You must always obtain permission from landowners before flying over their property.

This is where the expertise of fixers in Greece becomes indispensable. They have the experience to navigate the complex application process for film permits Greece, giving you the best chance of securing the necessary permissions.

Hiring Professional Drone Filming Services in Greece

For most international productions, the simplest and most reliable approach is to hire a local, fully-licensed provider of drone filming services Greece. The benefits are significant:

• Compliance: They are already certified, registered, and insured to operate in Greece.
• Experience: They have a proven track record of successfully applying for authorizations from the HCAA.
• Local Knowledge: They know the best locations and how to capture them safely and legally.
• Cost-Effective: It often reduces the overall cost of filming in Greece by avoiding the complexities and potential delays of bringing in your own pilot and equipment.

Conclusion

While the regulations may seem complex, they are in place to ensure safety and protect Greece's unique cultural heritage. Planning ahead and working with local experts are the keys to capturing stunning aerial footage without any legal trouble.

To ensure your production soars, contact us today to learn more about our professional aerial video production Greece services. Let us handle the paperwork so you can focus on the creative vision.