For many areas in Romania, flying a drone requires clearance from the Ministry of National Defence (MoD) under Government Decision (HG) 859/2011. The process can seem complex, but by following the correct steps and preparing documents early, you can obtain approval without surprises.

When you need MoD clearance

Clearance is generally required when:

  • the flight area overlaps controlled airspace or airspace that is sensitive from a military perspective
  • the UAS / ROMATSA map indicates coordination with the MoD is needed
  • you plan flights near military facilities, exercise areas, or protected corridors

Always check the map before you set the flight date — clearance timelines can be days or weeks.

The Government Decision regulates operation of unmanned aircraft in national airspace. The request includes details about:

  • operator and pilot
  • drone type (mass, class)
  • operation area and coordinates
  • date, time, and duration
  • purpose of flight
  • safety measures

Documents usually required

Prepare:

  1. Competency certificate (A1/A3 or higher)
  2. UAS operator number from AACR
  3. Drone identification data (model, serial)
  4. Map / coordinates of the flight area
  5. Operation description (photo, video, inspection, etc.)
  6. RC insurance — if applicable to your operation

The exact list may vary — consult current MoD instructions.

Request steps

1. Check the zone on the map

Confirm that MoD clearance is required. If the zone is clear and there is no NOTAM, you may not need clearance — but verification remains mandatory.

2. Complete the request

You can use the Drone Log workflow to generate the HG859 request with operation data pre-filled.

3. Submit to the MoD

Send the request through the official channel indicated by the MoD (email / portal, per the procedure in force).

4. Wait for the response

Timelines depend on zone complexity and request volume. Plan with margin.

5. Keep clearance for the flight

Document approval in your flight log. Flying without valid clearance in a protected zone attracts penalties.

How Drone Log helps

  • Integrated map — see whether the zone requires clearance
  • HG859 request generator — structured PDF export
  • Flight log — attach clearance and pre-flight checks
  • NOTAM — confirm no new restrictions appear after clearance is granted

Common mistakes

  • Submitting a request without precise coordinates
  • Unrealistic deadlines — requesting clearance 24 hours before a complex flight
  • Ignoring a NOTAM issued after clearance
  • Flying outside the approved window

Conclusion

MoD clearance is a normal step for professional pilots and amateurs who fly in sensitive areas. Plan ahead, document correctly, and combine clearance with NOTAM and UAS checks on the day of flight.