What was once only possible in Hollywood movies is completely normal today: the sky above Switzerland is full of drones. Their camera function makes them even more attractive. Even cheap models create astonishingly good aerial images or deliver entire film sequences. Yet there are no clear rules about what you can and cannot film.
Photos of landscapes are fine, as is your own property, but even your neighbor must be asked for permission when it comes to their land. Passersby must also give their consent before they can be photographed if they are recognizable.
Beware of bikinis!
My colleague's wedding film was illegal.
Filming from cloud nine? Better not
Drones gone astray
Drone accidents are not merely theoretical possibilities, by the way: At the Madonna di Campiglio ski race, skier Marcel Hirscher was almost struck by a TV drone that had got out of control. It crashed onto the slope right behind him during his run and was smashed to pieces. Anyone watching the video of the incident will see that the drone was enormous and could have severely injured the skier.
Should every pilot be registered?
Further information is available from
the Federal Office of Civil Aviation
the Swiss Association of Civilian Drone Owners
Play it safely
Personal liability insurance is a matter of course nowadays. It at least covers the cost of damage caused by small drones weighing less than 500 grams. Anyone flying a heavy drone is required by law to have additional insurance cover for model aircraft. Before acting as a pilot, clarify whether you are insured. By the way, with Zurich you benefit from comprehensive protection: Even large drones are included in the basic cover provided by personal liability insurance. One call is enough to get the prescribed proof of insurance, which you must carry with you when using drones weighing over 500 grams.