Dear CADdy Geomatics customers,
We would like to inform you today about a military maneuver that is currently taking place called "Air Defender 2023" and call on you to be particularly vigilant. This applies in particular to the use of drones, be it for private purposes or for surveying tasks. Under certain circumstances, operating drones can be a criminal offense and it is important that you do your research beforehand.
The participating NATO partners conduct the maneuver in special areas known as ED-Rs (Restricted Areas). These areas require explicit permission to traverse. This means that you need a fly-through permit from the Federal Supervisory Office for Air Traffic Control (BAF) to fly over these areas. An entry without this permit is a criminal offense according to § 62 of the Air Traffic Act (LuftVG) and can be punished with a fine or even with imprisonment of up to two years.
Therefore, before operating your drones, we urge you to ensure that you have all the necessary permits and information. This is not only about your own safety, but also about the safety of air traffic and military activities during the maneuver.
The “Air Defender 2023” maneuvers will take place on the following dates: 12.-16. and 19.-22. June 2023. Special attention should be paid to the ED-R East Flight 1. You can read the exact limits of this ED-R in the NOTAM (Notice to Airmen), which can be accessed at the following link: which can be accessed at the following link : [links: https://www.dfs.de/homepage/de/medien/ifr-vfr-informationen/vfr-informationen/12-06-2023-aip-sup-militaerische-uebung-air-defender-2023/sup-vfr-16-23-page-1-04-may-2023.pdf?cid=icu]
According to the VFR 16/23 of the German air traffic control from May 4, 2023 with the title "Militarische Exercise Air Defender 2023 (12-16 & 19-22 JUN 2023)" the airspace of the ED-R extends from GND/FL100* to FL660 . The GND floor applies from 08:30 to 11:30 UTC, while the FL100 floor applies from 08:00 to 08:30 and from 11:30 to 12:00 UTC.
During the above times, operating a drone within this ED-R is a criminal offense. We would therefore urge you to be extra careful during this time and to ensure that you do not operate any illegal flights.
If you are unsure or have further questions, please do not hesitate to
to contact us. Our team is at your disposal and will answer all your questions about the use of drones during the "Air Defender 2023" maneuver. You can reach us on 089 427422 0.
We would like to emphasize that our top priority is that you move safely and in accordance with the applicable laws. Therefore, it is essential that you are thoroughly informed about the current regulations and obtain the necessary permits before each drone flight.
Participation in the Air Defender 2023 exercise represents an exciting and significant opportunity for NATO partners to train and hone their air defense capabilities. As responsible drone pilots, it is our duty to respect this maneuver and abide by the applicable rules.
Please take the time to go to the NOTAM link above and read the information carefully. Note the specific times when drone flight is prohibited within ED-R East Flight 1.
Let's work together to ensure we support the "Air Defender 2023" maneuver with responsibility and consideration for the safety of all involved. If you have any questions or uncertainties, we will be happy to assist you.
Stay vigilant and respect the rules of the airspace in principle and especially now!
Your CADdy Geomatics team
