Having civil liability insurance for drones in Spain is mandatory for some drone operations since 31 December 2020, according to AESA, whether for recreational or professional purposes.
There are currently 5 minimum requirements to fly a drone in Spain, and among them is the obligation to take out third-party liability insurance to cover any damage you may cause to structures or people during your piloting.
In this article, we will delve into the current regulations governing drone insurance in Spain, the vital importance of having drone liability insurance, which types of drones are required to have it and which are not, and why I believe Coverdrone stands out as one of the best options available in the Spanish market, offering excellent cover at competitive prices.
If you are a drone pilot in Spain, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to fly safely and legally.
If your drone is an unlicensed drone and you fly in a specific open subcategory, or your drone is a drone classified as a ‘toy’ and detailed in its instruction manual by its manufacturer, you will be exempt from having to take out drone insurance. But I’ll tell you in more detail, read on.
The importance of safe flying in the world of drones
The rise of drones in Spain has transformed multiple sectors, from aerial photography and videography to infrastructure inspection and precision agriculture. However, along with the endless possibilities offered by these unmanned aircraft, there are also legal responsibilities and the need to protect against potential incidents.
In this context, drone liability insurance is a crucial element for any pilot, whether professional or recreational.
Flying a drone, although it may seem a simple activity, carries inherent risks. Technical failure, human error or even external factors can trigger unforeseen situations with significant economic consequences.
Imagine a drone losing control and causing damage to property, injuring someone or interrupting an activity. In these scenarios, having the best drone insurance not only protects you legally, but also gives you peace of mind knowing that you are covered against potential third-party claims.
Coverdrone: the cheapest drone insurance and your best option
I have been flying drones at Javier Gómiz for almost 6 years and I have seen how little by little the prices of UAS insurance have been changing as time has gone by and more companies have been jumping on the bandwagon of this booming business.
After searching for prices on the internet and asking several companies, the cheapest price I have found is definitely from Coverdrone:
- Recreational: 18€, i.e. if your flights are not for profit.
- Professional: 128,25€
Why do I recommend Coverdrone as your best drone liability insurance?
- Comprehensive and customisable coverage: Coverdrone offers liability insurance policies designed specifically for the needs of the drone world. Coverages typically include third party damage, personal injury, property damage and even invasion of privacy coverage (depending on the policy). They also offer the ability to customise coverage and indemnity limits according to your needs and the type of operations you perform.
- Excellent value for money: Despite offering robust coverage, Coverdrone stands out for its competitive pricing, making it one of the cheapest drone insurances in the Spanish market in relation to the quality of its services.
- Specialisation in drones: Unlike generalist insurers, Coverdrone specialises in the drone sector, which means they understand the specific risks associated with this activity and can offer you more accurate advice and more appropriate cover.
- Simple and fast contracting process: Taking out drone liability insurance with Coverdrone is a quick and easy online process, which allows you to obtain your policy quickly and conveniently.
- Dedicated customer service: Coverdrone has an experienced drone customer service team, ensuring you receive efficient and personalised support in the event of any queries or claims.
- Industry recognition: Coverdrone enjoys an excellent reputation among drone pilots and operators in Spain, being a trusted brand recognised for its quality and service.
Drone insurance regulations and protection
The current drone regulations in Spain and the obligatory nature of drone insurance
Drone legislation in Spain has evolved rapidly in recent years to adapt to the growth of the sector. Currently, the main regulatory framework is defined by Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/947 on rules and procedures for the use of unmanned aircraft and complementary national regulations.
As far as insurance is concerned, the regulations are clear: liability insurance is mandatory for all types of drones depending on the type of operation and the maximum take-off weight (MTOM) of the aircraft.
It is crucial for drone operators in Spain to understand what category their operations fall into and the specific insurance regulations that apply to them. Although not always required by law for the open category, prudence and financial protection make drone liability insurance a smart investment.
Why is drone liability insurance essential?
Beyond the legal obligation in certain cases, the importance of having drone liability insurance lies in the protection it offers against possible eventualities. Accidents can happen, and the financial consequences of not being insured can be devastating.
- Financial protection: Liability insurance covers material damage, personal injury or even loss of profit that your drone may cause to third parties. Without insurance, you would have to meet these costs out of your own assets, which could seriously jeopardise your financial stability.
- Legal compliance (when mandatory): In the ‘specific’ and ‘certified’ categories, not having valid liability insurance can lead to significant financial penalties and even a ban on operating your drone.
- Peace of mind and security: Knowing that you have an insurance policy allows you to fly with greater peace of mind, focusing on the operation and enjoying the benefits of your drone without the constant worry of possible incidents and their financial consequences.
- Access to certain areas and permits: In some cases, in order to obtain permits to fly in specific areas or to participate in certain events, civil liability insurance may be required.
- Professional image: For professional operators, having liability insurance conveys seriousness and professionalism to their clients, generating trust and credibility.
In short, UAV insurance is an essential investment to protect yourself, others and your drone activity. Even if your operation is not legally required to have it, the benefits of having this protection far outweigh the cost of the policy.
Which drones are required to have liability insurance in Spain?
According to Article 8 of Royal Decree 517/2024:
Liability insurance in the ‘Open’ Category
- Subcategory A1: Operations with class C0 or privately built drones with a maximum take-off mass (MTOM) of less than 250g. In this case, liability insurance is not mandatory.
- Subcategory A2: Operations with drones of class C1 or C2. It is mandatory to have liability insurance to cover possible damage to third parties.
- Subcategory A3: Operations with class C3 or C4 drones, or privately built drones with MTOM less than 25 kg. Liability insurance is not mandatory if the conditions set out in the regulations are met.
Liability insurance in the ‘specific’ Category
For operations that are considered higher risk and require prior authorisation from the Spanish Aviation Safety Agency (AESA), it is compulsory to take out civil liability insurance. EASA may require a specific minimum coverage depending on the risk of the operation.
Liability insurance in the ‘certified’ Category
This category covers higher risk operations, similar to manned aviation, and also requires insurance with coverages appropriate to the level of risk.
Despite the non-mandatory nature of the open category for all drones, we strongly reiterate the recommendation to take out drone liability insurance for any operator, regardless of the use of their aircraft.
The peace of mind and financial protection it offers far outweigh the cost of the policy.
The peace of mind and financial protection it offers far outweigh the cost of the policy.
Slight
- Individuals: Fines from €60 to €45,000.
- Professionals: Fines from €4,500 to €70,000.
Graves
- Individuals: Fines from €45,001 to €90,000.
- Professionals: Fines from €70,001 to €250,000.
Very Serious
- Individuals: Fines from €90,001 to €225,000.
- Professionals: Fines from 250.000 € to 4.500.000€.
These penalties are applied depending on the type of operation and the risk associated with it. For example, operating a drone without insurance in a restricted area or without proper training may be considered a serious or very serious infringement, with corresponding financial penalties.
📌 Recommendation
To avoid penalties and operate legally and safely, it is essential to have liability insurance appropriate to the characteristics of the drone and the type of operation being performed.
In addition, it is necessary to comply with other legal requirements, such as pilot training and operator registration with EASA. Its importance as a tool for financial protection and peace of mind is undeniable for any pilot.
In this sense, Coverdrone presents itself as an exceptional solution, offering comprehensive drone liability cover, adaptable to your needs, and with unbeatable value for money, being one of the cheapest drone insurances with the best features in the Spanish market.
Don’t wait for the unexpected to happen. Invest in your peace of mind and in the protection of your drone activity. Find out about UAV insurance options and seriously consider Coverdrone as your ally to fly safely and confidently in the Spanish sky. Your peace of mind and your wallet will thank you!
So much for this short article but straight to what you need which is the cheapest drone liability insurance on the market.
Do you already have your insurance? Do you have a company other than Coverdrone? What is your experience with that insurer? Have you found a better price than the one offered by Coverdrone? I read your answers!
Frequently asked questions about drone insurance in Spain
What insurance do I need for a drone?
In Spain, it is mandatory to have civil liability insurance for drones that covers possible damage to third parties. This protects both pilots and third parties in the event of accidents.
Is drone insurance mandatory?
Yes, Spanish law requires civil liability insurance for drones, especially if they are used for professional purposes or in populated areas.
How much does civil liability insurance cost in Spain?
The cost varies depending on coverage and usage, but typically ranges from €100 to €400 per year for recreational and professional drones.
How much does civil liability insurance cost?
Prices depend on factors such as the power of the drone, usage, coverage and insurance company, but are usually around €150-350 per year.
What does drone insurance cover in Spain?
Mainly damage to third parties, including personal injury and property damage, as well as possible damage to the aircraft depending on the policy.
Can I fly a drone without insurance in unpopulated areas?
It is not recommended. The law makes insurance compulsory, regardless of the flight zone.
How to take out drone insurance in Spain?
You can take out insurance through insurers specialising in drones or civil liability insurance, checking the specific coverage for drones.
Is it necessary to renew the insurance every year?
Yes, most drone insurance policies are annual and must be renewed to maintain coverage.
Is there specific insurance for professional drones?
Yes, there are specific policies for professional use that include additional coverage such as equipment damage, extended civil liability, and more.
What happens if I fly a drone without insurance and have an accident?
It may result in administrative penalties, fines, and personal civil liability for damages caused to third parties.
