Direction Générale de l'Aviation Civile

Description

Introduction to DGAC and DSAC

DGAC (Direction Générale de l'Aviation Civile):

The DGAC, or the French Civil Aviation Authority, is the national authority responsible for overseeing civil aviation in France. It operates under the Ministry for the Ecological Transition and Solidarity. The DGAC's primary role is to ensure the safety, security, and environmental compatibility of civil aviation activities. This includes the regulation and certification of aircraft, monitoring air traffic, and overseeing the implementation of aviation policies.

DSAC (Direction de la Sécurité de l'Aviation Civile):

The DSAC is a directorate within the DGAC focused specifically on aviation safety. It is responsible for the safety oversight of civil aviation operations in France. The DSAC’s duties include inspecting aircraft, certifying aviation personnel and organizations, and enforcing aviation safety regulations.

 DGAC DSAC Roles in Drone Regulations

The DGAC and DSAC are crucial in regulating and ensuring the safe operation of drones in France. Their roles include:

1. Developing Regulations: They create and update regulations governing drone usage, ensuring these align with European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) standards.
2. Certification and Licensing: The DGAC handles the certification of drones and the licensing of drone operators, ensuring they meet the required safety and operational standards.
3. Operational Oversight: The DSAC oversees the enforcement of these regulations, conducting inspections and ensuring compliance with safety standards.
4. Safety and Security: Both organizations work together to ensure that drone operations do not compromise the safety and security of civil aviation, integrating drones safely into the national airspace.
5. Public Information and Guidelines: They provide resources and guidelines for drone operators, helping them understand and comply with legal requirements.

In summary, the DGAC and DSAC play integral roles in maintaining the safety, security, and regulatory compliance of drone operations in France, ensuring that the integration of drones into the national airspace is done efficiently and safely.

Summary of Drone Regulations in France

The French drone regulations, aligned with European standards, categorize drone operations based on risk levels: 

1. Open Category: Low-risk operations (e.g., recreational flights within visual line of sight).
2. Specific Category: Moderate-risk operations requiring standard scenarios or specific authorizations.
3. Certified Category: High-risk operations needing certification.

Drone operators must comply with national regulations for security and airspace use. Training and certification are essential for all categories. 

For more detailed information, you can visit DGAC Drone Regulations.
Link : https://www.ecologie.gouv.fr/politiques-publiques/introduction

The webpage provides an overview of European drone regulations, focusing on the design, maintenance, and operation based on risk levels: Open (low risk), Specific (moderate risk), and Certified (high risk). It includes national regulations for security and airspace use. The site offers information on aeromodelling associations, training, and guidelines for drone operators, supplemented by guides and downloadable resources for safety notifications and compliance.