Private flights in Germany may be done by DMO customers according to the association rules of the Deutscher Modellflieger Verband e. V., DMFV in short. Further information: The guidelines for flying according to the DMFV rules can be found here (german).
What does this mean?
A certificate of competence is required to operate drones or model aircraft with a maximum takeoff weight exceeding 2 kg or at an altitude of more than 120 meters. Multicopters and drones are generally limited to a flight altitude of 120 meters, unless they are flown at approved model airfields, which may have different altitude restrictions.
For takeoff weights up to 2 kg and altitudes below 120 m, you do not need either a certificate of proficiency or an EU certificate of competence. Incidentally, when flying with an instructor, the student does not need their own certificate of proficiency either.
There are certain rules that apply to the operation of all types of model aircraft for recreational purposes, such as maintaining a sufficient horizontal distance from the boundaries of residential, commercial, industrial, and recreational areas (such as parks, amusement parks, campgrounds, outdoor swimming pools, beaches, and similar locations). You can download the DMFV’s clear and concise brochure on flight rules here:
FPV flight is allowed. Up to a flight altitude of 30 meters, no airspace observer (spotter) is required, if you are a resident of Germany. At a flight altitude of 30 meters, a spotter must stand next to the pilot who can point out any hazards that may occur and who has the aircraft in view at all times.
CAUTION: The video goggles must never be used to increase the maximum distance to the pilot. The aircraft must therefore be visible from the pilot's position at all times, even without the aid of video goggles.
Safety features such as return to home or fail-safe functions are also permitted.
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