Drone news

DJI drones: what will change with European regulations in France from 2026?

Drone regulations in Europe and France

Since January 1ᵉʳ, 2024, the European Union has been applying unified regulations on the use of civil drones. These regulations, stemming from regulations (EU) 2019/947 and 2019/945, directly concern France, where they are implemented by the DGAC (French Civil Aviation Authority). It imposes rules common to all member states: registration of operators, training of remote pilots and classification of drones according to precise technical standards.

Drones are classified into "Open", "Specific" and "Certified" categories, according to their level of risk. For the general public and many professionals, the "Open" category applies, subdivided into three sub-categories (A1, A2 and A3). These distinctions determine whether you can fly close to people, in urban areas or only in open country.

DJI on the front line: compliant drones for Europe

A world leader, DJI has been quick to adapt its models to the new European requirements. As a result, several of its popular ranges now carry the CE mark with a C0, C1 or C2 class, essential for flying freely in France in the "Open" category.

  • DJI Mini 3 Pro C0-rated, it can be flown in A1 subcategory, close to people, without a heavy theoretical examination.
  • DJI Mavic 3 C1-certified, it also opens the door to A1 flights under certain conditions.
  • DJI Mavic 4 Pro and 4E/4T matrix In the C2 category, they are intended for the A2 sub-category, requiring more advanced training. Some professional models are also available in C5 and C6 versions, specially designed for standard "Specific" scenarios.

These markings guarantee that DJI drones comply with European and French law. For pilots, this means greater legal certainty and expanded flight possibilities.

And after 2026: regulatory stability

Contrary to popular belief, there will be no no new regulatory changeover in 2026 in France. The key date has already been January 1ᵉʳ, 2024with the end of the transitional period. Legacy" DJI drones (purchased before 2024 without class marking) can still be used:

In practice, therefore, a DJI drone purchased before 2024 will continue to be authorized in France in 2026, but with limitations: it will be impossible to fly close to people for models weighing over 250 g, for example.

Training, registration and flight zones in France

In France, all DJI drone remote pilots must beregister as a UAS operator on the portal AlphaTango from the DGAC, as soon as the aircraft is equipped with a camera. Recreational drones weighing less than 250 g are the exception, but most DJI models require registration.

There are two levels of training:

  • Online training A1/A3 (free, via AlphaTango), mandatory for most DJI drones over 250 g.
  • A2 Training (complementary theoretical examination), required to fly a Class C2 drone in a populated area.

At the same time, pilots must consult the air restriction maps (Géoportail or partner applications) to respect prohibited or restricted zones.

Repair and maintenance: the key to extending the life of DJI drones

With the regulations stabilized, the key issue for French users in 2026 will be more themaintenance and repair of their DJI drone. A well-maintained machine, equipped with a firmware and repaired with compliant parts, retains its value and conformity.

In France, more and more specialized workshops are offering DJI drone repair services: replacing motors, calibrating sensors, changing cameras or updating the remote identification system. Users are advised to use approved repairers or authorized DJI centers, so as not to lose CE conformity and the class marking required to fly legally.

2026, continuity rather than rupture

In 2026, DJI drone users in France won't have to prepare for a new regulatory change, but for the consolidation of the framework already in force since 2024. The choice of drone - be it a lightweight model like the Mini 3 Pro or a professional device like the Matrice 4 - will depend on your needs and the type of mission you're planning.

The key will be to pay close attention to three points: registering with AlphaTango, following the appropriate training courses, and keeping your equipment in good condition through professional repairs. In this way, enthusiasts and professionals alike will be able to continue to enjoy their DJI drones legally, in complete safety, and with an extended lifespan for their equipment.

FAQ on DJI drones and regulations in France from 2026

Can you still fly a DJI drone in France in 2026 without class marking?
Yes, DJI drones purchased before 2024 without CE marking (C0 to C6) remain authorized in France. Under 250 g, they can fly in sub-category A1, while models up to 25 kg can fly in A3, i.e. away from people and populated areas.

Which DJI should you choose to fly legally in urban areas in France?
If you want to fly close to people in town, we advise you to opt for a recent DJI drone with C1 or C2 marking (e.g. the DJI Mavic 3 with C1 or the Mavic 4 Pro with C2). These certifications allow you to fly in A1 or A2 category, subject to appropriate training.

Should you register your DJI drone in 2026?
In France, registration on the AlphaTango from the DGAC is compulsory if the DJI drone is equipped with a camera and weighs over 250g. This registration remains valid until 2026.

What training is required to fly a DJI in France?
A1/A3 online training is mandatory for most DJI drones weighing over 250 g. For C2-rated drones, more advanced A2 training is required if you wish to fly in populated areas.

Can you repair your DJI drone yourself without losing conformity?
It is possible to repair a DJI drone yourself, but this can cause problems if non-compliant parts are used. To keep the CE mark and fly legally, we strongly recommend that you go to an authorized center or specialized DJI repairer in France.

Will there be new rules for DJI drones in 2026?
No. European regulations applying in France have been stabilized since 2024. No new changeover is planned for 2026: the current rules will remain unchanged, with categories A1, A2 and A3 and drone classes C0 to C6.