Drone categories in the EASA regulations
Detailed overview of the open, specific, and certified category for drone flying in Norway.
Three categories based on risk
EASA regulations divide all drone flights into three categories according to risk level. The category determines the requirements for the operator, the drone, and the flight.
| Category | Risk level | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Open | Low | Hobby, simple photo and video |
| Specific | Medium | Inspection, mapping, deliveries |
| Certified | High | Passenger transport, flying over crowds with large drones |
Open category
The open category is the most common and does not require prior permission from the Civil Aviation Authority. It is divided into three subcategories.| Subcategory | Maximum weight | Distance from people | | — | — | — | | A1 | Under 250 g or C0/C1 | Can fly over people, not crowds | | A2 | Under 2 kg (C2) | At least 30 m from people | | A3 | Under 25 kg (C2/C3/C4) | At least 150 m from residential and commercial areas |
All flights in the open category must take place under 120 meters above the ground and with visual line of sight (VLOS).
Specific category
The specific category applies to flights that exceed the limits in the open category. You must apply to the Civil Aviation Authority for an operating authorization or use a standard scenario (STS).
- STS-01 covers flights over controlled ground area in densely built-up areas.
- STS-02 covers flights beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) in sparsely populated areas.
- Flights outside the standard scenarios require an individual risk assessment (SORA).The operator must have an operations manual and document all flights.
Certified category
The certified category applies to operations with high risk, such as transporting people or dangerous goods. The requirements correspond to those in traditional aviation.
- The drone must have a type certificate from EASA.
- The operator needs an Air Operator Certificate (AOC).
- The pilot must have a remote pilot certificate with advanced training.
This category is currently used little, but will become more important as drone taxis and autonomous delivery services develop.
How to choose the right category
Start by considering where you will fly, what the drone weighs, and who might be affected. Most hobby pilots stay in the open category, while commercial operators often need the specific category.
Further reading
- Read about drone pilot license and certificate requirements.
- See airspace rules for flight heights and zones.
- Understand weight classes and CE marking for your drone.
- Practice with free theory test to test your knowledge.
Read next
More in Drone exam
Airspace regulations for drones
Important airspace rules you need to know before you fly a drone in Norway.
Drone flying in practice
Practical guide to drone flying with checklist, battery tips, and techniques for safe and efficient flying.
Drone insurance
Overview of insurance claims for drone flying, the difference between hobby and commercial use, and what the insurance covers.
Drone pilot license in Norway
What you need to know about drone pilot licenses, subcategories, and registration to fly legally in Norway.