Regulatory environment
To date, we list the main regulations required to operate a drone in a commercial context. Note that these rules evolve quickly, as new fields open every day and the pressure for more freedom from operators on the regulators is always there.
France used to operate its own regulatory framework which has been replaced in 2026 by a European level one, under the supervision of The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The regulatory framework should cover security, safety, privacy, data protection and insurance matters. The EASA has published a first regulation, which was implemented on 1 January 2021, which defines the categories of UAV operations according to three classes based on their risk.
Open Category: Leisure or professional drone flights of less than 25kg whose flight is made in sight. This category already requires completion of online theoretical training for drones >250g and competency demonstration for certain use cases. Since January 2024, the aircraft must meet CE marking standards and electronic ID is required for drones weighing between 250g and 25kg.
Specific Category: This category covers characteristics that have not been covered under the ‘open’ category. Under this category, the drone operator has to undergo a safety risk assessment and identify a mitigation structure that needs to be reviewed and approved by the National Aviation Authority (NAA). A Manual of Operations is mandatory to obtain approval.
Certified Category: Includes large unmanned aircraft and their operations, carrying a higher degree of risk (transport of goods, urban logistics and people). It will follow aeronautical principles, such as certification and the need to have a drone pilot’s licence.
The regulatory framework in France still remains one of the most demanding in Europe, as certain commercial operations in controlled, populated or sensitive airspace requires a prefecture notification.
Transaction on Aerialtronics
Drone Volt bought up the assets of the Aerialtronics company. On 18 September 2017, Drone Volt took majority control of the main assets (including products, inventory and intellectual property, as well as the knowledgeable team members and sites) of the Dutch company, Aerialtronics DV BV.
On 9 September 2020, Drone Volt acquired the remaining shares to the minorities, or 49.8% of the market capitalisation. The operation was based on a $5.95 valuation, or €5m, financed with a vendor loan over 36 months, carrying 3% interest. This subsidiary was closed in December 2024 to cut costs.
