Altitude restrictions are among the most important—and most violated—regulations for Dutch drone operators. Understanding altitude limitations prevents dangerous airspace conflicts and ensures legal compliance with EASA and ILT requirements.
Regulatory Altitude Framework
Altitude Compliance Documentation
Required Records
Maintain documentation showing:
- Flight date and time
- Starting and maximum altitude
- Terrain elevation at operation location
- Airspace classification
- Authorization documentation (if required)
- Incident or unusual altitude events
- Equipment used (altimeter type, calibration)
Compliance Verification
Before operations, verify:
- Equipment: Altimeter calibration, GPS function
- Airspace: Classification and restrictions via ILT tool
- Authorization: Specific category approval (if applicable)
- Terrain: Elevation variations affecting AGL
- Documentation: Plan addresses altitude compliance
MmowW Altitude Management
MmowW helps ensure altitude compliance by:
- Integrating terrain elevation database
- Displaying altitude limits for planned location
- Recording altitude data during flight
- Showing airspace restrictions
- Calculating AGL from MSL automatically
- Generating altitude compliance reports
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the maximum altitude I can fly my drone in Netherlands?Open category operations are limited to 120 meters AGL. Specific category operations can exceed this with ILT authorization. Recreational operations also limited to 120 meters AGL. Always verify airspace classification for your location.
What's the difference between AGL and MSL altitude?AGL (Above Ground Level) measures from ground beneath aircraft and changes with terrain. MSL (Mean Sea Level) is constant reference. Drone operations use AGL limits. ILT restrictions may specify MSL; convert to AGL for compliance.
Can I fly higher with specific category authorization?Yes. Specific category authorization can permit altitudes up to 500m AGL depending on operation type. Obtain authorization from ILT before exceeding 120m limit.
How do I find altitude restrictions around airports?Use ILT Interactive Airspace Map (kaarten.ilent.nl) or flight planning software. Check NOTAMs for temporary restrictions. Contact airport operations if planning operations near airfield.
How accurate is GPS altitude for compliance?Stay Safe and Compliant with Altitude
Altitude violations create airspace safety hazards and legal consequences. MmowW helps you maintain accurate altitude records and compliance documentation.
Start tracking altitude compliance at €6.08/drone/month with automated altitude monitoring and airspace integration. Monitor Altitude Limits with MmowW →