Drone Class Identification Labels
The drone C-Class identification labels (CILs) include the symbols for all drones classes (C0 to C6) in a format based on the EU 'Drone Regulation' (Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/945), as amended by Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/1058. You can download the individual CIL files in different colours below.
CILs were introduced in the Drone Regulation, guaranteeing legal certainty and facilitating straightforward compliance verification. Manufacturers are required to use the CILs as defined in Article 16(2) of the Drone Regulation, and not similar alternatives.
Why use standard CILs?
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Importance of CLIs
CILs are crucial for indicating the class of your drone and for communicating important information about drones compliance, capabilities, and operational limitations.
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Consistency of label design
Using the label design outlined in the Drone Regulation is crucial as it guarantees homogeneity and recognition of the brand, to ensure requirement recognition.
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Recognising C-Class markings
Consistent C-Class markings are easily recognisable and understood by drone operators, regulatory authorities, and other airspace users.
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Promoting safer communications
This promotes safer communication regarding the classification of drones, which is covered by the full implementation of the C-class marking as of 1 January 2024.
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Reducing confusion with standarised labels
A standardised label design allows less room for confusion or misinterpretation of C-class markings and facilitates compatibility. This is critical for drone operators who may operate in different countries with varying regulatory requirements.
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Simplifying integration for manufacturers
Manufacturers can incorporate the homogenous CILs into drone designs more easily, while regulatory authorities can introduce consistent standards.
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Enhancing user awareness
Last but not least, users can better recognise the applicability of CILs, hence improving their awareness by the public.
No variations in label design allowed
Any deviation in the use of font or any alteration of the label design is not permitted.
Article 16(2) of the European Drone Regulation establishes the proportions. The drone CILs can however vary in size according to the specific requirements, be it a large box, a medium sticker, or a small CIL to be attached to a drone, etc.
Each CIL must be visibly, legibly, and indelibly affixed on the drone or, where relevant, on each accessory of a C-class 5 accessories kit, and on its packaging. The affixing to a product of markings, signs, or inscriptions that are likely to mislead third parties about the meaning or form of the CIL is prohibited.
CIL applications
CILs can be used in various contexts related to drone operation and regulation, such as:
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Drone packaging and manuals
Manufacturers can include CILs on the packaging, on the drone themselves, and in the user manuals, to indicate the class of the drone and to provide important safety information to users.
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Drone registration documents
When registering a drone with the relevant Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) in an EASA Member State, CILs must be contained in all paper or electronic documentation to indicate the type and class of the drone.
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Training materials and courses
CILs may be included in training materials and courses for drone operators and pilots, to educate them about different drone classes and the associated regulations and restrictions.
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Airspace management
Air Traffic Control (ATC) authorities and airspace management organisations may use CILs to monitor and manage drone traffic in different airspace classes in various contexts.
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Public awareness campaigns
CILs can also be used in public-awareness promotion campaigns, to educate the general public about drone regulations and safety guidelines.
Drone Information Notices — Leaflets
To support the Drone Community in the safe operation of their drones, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is putting at everyone’s disposal leaflets concisely covering the main safety points related to all drone classes (from Class 0 to Class 6). The leaflets highlight the do’s and don’ts for drone operators and pilots. Whether you are an operator, pilot, or manufacturer, we encourage you to take full advantage of those leaflets. You will find them in the packaging of any drone you buy – or you can download them below.
Note 1: all leaflets for all classes and in all languages in colour are also available in one zip file for ease of downloading.
Note 2: all leaflets for all classes and in all languages are also available in black and white for ease of printing.
