Ireland trains over 26,000 drone pilots; IAA launches 'Drone Safely' campaign

December 13, 2025 at 03:05 PM•1 min read

The Irish Aviation Authority reports over 26,000 drone pilots trained in Ireland, urging safe operation.

Key Points

1Over 26,000 drone pilots trained in Ireland, with 9,200+ operators registered since 2021, reflecting exponential growth.
2Irish Aviation Authority launched 'Drone Safely' campaign to ensure operators register and understand rules amid rising usage.
3Drones with cameras, weighing over 250g, or capable of significant force, legally require operator registration in Ireland.
4IAA expresses concern over new pilots' awareness of responsibilities and encourages public reporting of unsafe drone use.

The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) has reported that over 26,000 drone pilots have been trained in Ireland, alongside the registration of more than 9,200 drone operators since 2021. In response to the exponential growth in drone usage, the IAA has launched its annual Christmas 'Drone Safely' campaign, urging both new and existing operators to register and adhere to national aviation regulations before flying.

Under Irish law, individuals operating drones equipped with a camera, weighing over 250 grams, or capable of striking with significant force, are legally required to register as a drone operator. Enda Walsh, the IAA’s drone manager, emphasized the importance of compliance, stating, "Thankfully the vast majority of drone users are compliant with the regulations. However, with the rapid growth of drone usage, we are concerned that new pilots may not be aware of their responsibilities, which can lead to unsafe flying."

The campaign aims to mitigate risks associated with unawareness of regulations. Furthermore, the Irish Aviation Authority actively encourages the public to report any instances of unsafe drone operation directly to them, reinforcing a collective responsibility for airspace safety.