Law & safety in plane spotting

Airline logos and trademark law: can you use aircraft photos commercially?

A painted aircraft almost always carries a registered trademark. When that doesn’t matter for your photo, when it gets tricky for sales, advertising or merchandise, and what role copyright and freedom of panorama play.

Spotters as security partners: airport watch programs and how to report anything unusual

Spotters stand at the fence for hours and know their airport. Airport watch programs turn that into a partnership with police and the airport. What the models abroad look like, what applies in Germany and how to report anything unusual properly.

Right to roam: using fields, meadows and paths at the airport

Farm tracks, meadow edges, fallow land: around many airports the best photo locations are in open countryside. The guide explains what the right to roam allows, when fields are closed and which limits apply at the airport.

Photos in the cockpit: when pilots may allow them and which rules apply

A cockpit photo at the gate is a highlight for many spotters. Whether it works is up to the captain – within clear rules on access, safety and distraction. Here’s what applies and how to ask.

Geozones and the dipul map: how to check no-fly zones for drones

The dipul map shows where drone geozones lie in Germany. The guide explains the eleven area types in § 21h LuftVO, how to use the map tool, the new DFS zones in control zones and the limits of the map.

Taking your drone on vacation: what applies in other EU countries and what to check first

Your registration and competency certificate from Germany are valid in all EASA states. But each country sets its own geographical zones, insurance requirements and local bans. This guide shows what travels with you and what you need to clarify on site.

Taking a drone on a plane: battery rules, carry-on and airline requirements

The drone can come on vacation, but the batteries can’t go in your checked bag. Watt-hours, spare battery limits, terminal protection, security screening and airline requirements at a glance – with a packing list.

Flying a drone in Austria: Austro Control, registration and no-fly zones

In Austria, Austro Control is the central authority for drones: registration, competency certificate, geozones and clearances in control zones all run through the Dronespace system. The guide explains what applies to residents and visitors – and why airports stay off limits for hobby pilots.

Registering your drone: operator registration with the LBA and attaching the e-ID correctly

From 250 grams, or with a camera on board, you need an operator registration with the Federal Aviation Office in Germany. The guide explains the obligation, costs, process, the format of the e-ID and how the number gets onto your drone.