UAV DACH – European Association for Unmanned Aviation

UAV DACH e.V. was founded in 2000 and describes itself as the European association for unmanned aviation. It is registered at the Charlottenburg local court in Berlin, where its office is located, and represents more than 200 members from industry, science and research. Its aim is to shape the framework conditions for the European drone economy and to promote the safe, commercial and sustainable operation of unmanned aircraft systems.

The association represents its members towards policymakers and regulators, prepares statements on regulation together with its members and provides legal assessments of draft rules, with a focus on data protection and operational liability. Its permanent competence groups cover design, operations, maintenance, qualification and training, airspace and ground infrastructure, and IT safety and security. Temporary application groups include Public Security & Defense and Drone Detection & Countermeasures, the latter run jointly with the German aerospace industries association BDLI.

The general meeting elects the board every two years. The board is chaired by Dr Gerald Wissel, with Oliver Lichtenstein as deputy chairman; the office is headed by Michael Wieland. UAV DACH organises the European Drone Forum and publishes news for its members.