Anyone who wants to fly a drone in Belgium must follow clear rules that are primarily based on the drone’s weight and the purpose of its use. Whether you fly for recreational purposes or for professional reasons, it’s important to know which category your drone falls under.
Belgian legislation categorizes drones into different weight classes. This classification determines which rules apply to you:
< 1 kg – Leisure use (recreational)
< 5 kg – Class 2 (semi-professional or extensive recreational use)
5 kg – Classes 1a and 1b (professional use)
If you’re flying at a certified model aircraft field, the rules are simpler: you’re allowed to fly all types of drones there, regardless of weight, as long as you follow the field’s regulations and those of the DGLV (Directorate General of Civil Aviation).
Most hobbyists fall into this category. For recreational use, your drone may weigh no more than 1 kg. This limits your choices to lightweight and affordable models such as:
DJI Tello
DJI Spark
DJI Mavic Pro
DJI Mavic Pro Platinum
DJI Mavic Air
These drones are ideal for beginners and hobbyists who just want to fly for fun without worrying about complex regulations.
If your drone weighs more than 1 kg but less than 5 kg, it falls under Class 2. This category is suitable for advanced hobbyists or semi-professional applications, such as aerial photography or inspections. Stricter requirements apply here, such as designated zones, additional safety regulations, and, in some cases, registration requirements.
Drones weighing more than 5 kg fall under Class 1a or 1b. This category is intended for professional use, such as film productions, agricultural inspections, or industrial applications. Pilots are often required to complete training, apply for permits, and comply with comprehensive safety standards.
Belgian legislation makes flying drones straightforward by clearly categorizing them based on weight and use. For most recreational users, a lightweight drone weighing less than 1 kg is sufficient. If you’re using a heavier drone or flying for professional purposes, you’ll fall into a higher category with additional rules and responsibilities.
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