1. Who Regulates Drone Flights?
In Bulgaria, the primary authority responsible for drone flight regulation is:
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Civil Aviation Administration (CAA) under the Ministry of Transport.
At the European level, drones fall under the jurisdiction of:
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EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency).
Since 2021, a new EU regulation has been in force, harmonizing drone rules across all member states. This means the same general rules apply across the EU, although individual countries may impose additional local requirements.
2. Flight Categories Based on Risk
EU regulations classify drone flights into three main categories based on risk level:
Open Category
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For low-risk operations
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Max takeoff weight: up to 25 kg
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Flight altitude: up to 120 meters
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No flying over people (except for very light drones under 250 g)
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Visual line of sight (VLOS) only
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No special permission required, but registration and online training are mandatory
Specific Category
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For higher-risk flights
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Requires an operational scenario and approval from the CAA
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Examples: flying in urban areas, beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS), flying over people
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A risk assessment (SORA) is required
Certified Category
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For the highest-risk operations – such as drones transporting people or hazardous materials
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Requires certified drones, operators, and pilots – similar to traditional aviation
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Currently rarely used
3. Drone and Pilot Registration
As of 2021 in Bulgaria, the following is mandatory:
✅ Operator registration (individual or legal entity)
✅ Online training and test for the pilot (for drones over 250 g or with a camera)
This is done through the CAA’s platform. After registration, you receive a unique ID number that must be visibly placed on the drone.
4. Flying a Drone with a Camera – Data Protection
If your drone has a camera (and most do), you are also subject to:
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The Personal Data Protection Act
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The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
This means you must not record people, private property, or license plates without consent. Violations can result in fines, even if the flight was recreational.
5. No-Fly Zones
There are restricted and prohibited airspaces where drone operation is banned or limited. These include:
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Airports and airfields
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Military facilities
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Border zones
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National parks and protected areas
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Government and strategic buildings
Before each flight, it’s recommended to check the no-fly zone maps, such as those provided by the CAA or apps like DJI FlySafe, AirMap, or Drone Assist.
6. What Not to Do When Flying a Drone
❌ Do not fly over people or crowds
❌ Do not fly at night without permission
❌ Do not operate a drone under the influence
❌ Do not fly beyond visual line of sight (unless with special permission – BVLOS)
❌ Do not violate others' privacy
7. Key Pre-Flight Steps
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Check the weather conditions
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Verify the flight zone is permitted
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Ensure the drone is in good working condition
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Charge both drone and controller batteries
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Attach the registration number visibly on the drone
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Have a safe landing plan in case of emergency
8. What’s Next? – The Future of Drone Regulations
As drone technology and the number of operators grow, further regulatory developments are expected, including:
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Integration of drones into air traffic management (U-Space)
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Real-time automated drone identification
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Increased insurance and certification requirements
Conclusion
Flying a drone is exciting and useful, but it also comes with responsibility. Understanding and complying with regulations is key to ensuring safety for everyone in the sky. Whether you're flying for fun, work, or innovation – make sure it’s legal, responsible, and well-informed.