Existing user? Sign in
Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Arta is a historic regional center in Epirus without a commercial airport of its own. Residents, visitors, and businesses typically use nearby airports such as Aktion National Airport in Preveza and Ioannina National Airport for domestic and international connections. Aviation activity affecting Arta includes scheduled air travel through these gateways, helicopter operations for medical evacuation and firefighting, general aviation flights, and rapidly growing drone uses for photography, agriculture, surveying, and events. Because Greece is a member of the European Union and EASA, aviation in Arta is governed by a mix of EU regulations and Greek national rules administered by the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority. This means passengers, pilots, drone operators, businesses, and landowners in Arta all operate within a structured legal framework covering safety, consumer rights, licensing, privacy, and environmental protection.
Many everyday situations in and around Arta can raise aviation legal issues where a lawyer can help. Travelers who experience flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding through Aktion or Ioannina may seek compensation or reimbursement under EU passenger rights. Drone owners can face fines or confiscation for flying in restricted areas, near archaeological sites, or without the correct registration and training, and lawyers can assist with compliance, permits, or administrative appeals. Businesses and media professionals planning aerial filming or agricultural spraying often need advice on operational categories, insurance, and local permissions. Property owners and hotels may need help addressing low overflight, noise, or privacy concerns, especially with drones capturing images of private spaces. Employers and aviation workers might require counsel on licensing, medical fitness, rostering, or safety investigations. In the event of an accident or incident, counsel can assist with reporting obligations, insurer communications, and dealings with the national accident investigation authority. Contract matters also arise, such as aircraft charters, maintenance agreements, hangarage, or partnerships with tour operators and event organizers using drones or helicopters.
Regulatory framework. Aviation in Arta is subject to EU and Greek law. The Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority regulates civil aviation and issues national guidance, while EASA rules apply across the EU. The national accident investigation authority conducts independent safety investigations after accidents and serious incidents. Airspace in Epirus includes controlled areas around airports and sensitive sites where additional restrictions apply.
Passenger rights. EU Regulation 261-2004 provides compensation and assistance in cases of flight delay, cancellation, or denied boarding on flights departing from any EU airport and flights operated by EU carriers into the EU. The Montreal Convention governs liability for baggage issues, personal injury, and delay, generally with a two year limit for filing court claims. Passengers connecting through action points like Aktion or Ioannina should keep travel records and act promptly.
Drones and model aircraft. Unmanned aircraft are regulated under EU rules, primarily Implementing Regulation 2019-947 and Delegated Regulation 2019-945. Operators must register, follow the Open, Specific, or Certified operational categories as applicable, complete required online training and exams, and carry minimum insurance when required. In Greece, additional UAS geographical zones apply around airports, military areas, prisons, and critical infrastructure. Flights near archaeological sites and monuments often require prior permission from the competent cultural authority. Operations in protected environmental areas may require coordination with environmental and municipal authorities, especially during fire season or for wildlife protection.
Privacy and data protection. Drone imagery can capture personal data. The EU GDPR and Greek data protection rules apply to recording, storing, or sharing identifiable images. Operators should use geofencing and camera tilt strategically, avoid filming private spaces without consent, and maintain a data retention and deletion plan. Commercial operators may need a data protection impact assessment depending on scale and sensitivity.
Business and aerial work. Aerial photography, inspections, and agricultural spraying are typically commercial operations that may require insurance, risk assessments, and specific operational authorizations depending on drone weight and proximity to people. Contracts with clients should address scope, deliverables, safety obligations, data rights, and liability allocation. For manned aviation charters or scenic flights, Greek and EU commercial air transport rules apply, and only appropriately certified operators may carry passengers for remuneration.
Accidents and reporting. Pilots, operators, and sometimes witnesses have reporting duties after accidents, serious incidents, or hazardous occurrences. Preserving evidence and notifying the correct authority promptly is important. Safety investigations are non punitive and separate from any civil or criminal proceedings.
Local context in Arta. While Arta lacks a commercial airport, its proximity to Aktion and Ioannina means their airspace and security considerations can affect operations in parts of the regional unit. Helipads serving medical and emergency services must remain clear of drone activity. Archaeological sites in and around Arta, as well as Natura 2000 areas and wetlands near the Amvrakikos Gulf, can trigger special permit requirements or temporary restrictions. Municipal by laws may limit takeoff and landing from public spaces such as parks or waterfronts, even where airspace is otherwise lawful.
In most cases you must register as a UAS operator before flying, even for recreation, and you must complete basic online training for the Open category. Registration and competency requirements depend on the drone weight and capabilities. Always check local UAS geographical zones for restrictions before flying.
Yes, filming or overflying archaeological sites often requires prior permission from the competent cultural authority. Unauthorized filming can lead to fines and confiscation. Plan ahead because approvals can take time and may include conditions on altitude and time of day.
Under EU Regulation 261-2004 you may be entitled to fixed compensation, rerouting or refund, and care such as meals and accommodation, unless the airline proves extraordinary circumstances. The amount depends on flight distance and delay at arrival. Keep boarding passes, booking confirmations, and communications from the airline.
The Montreal Convention generally sets a two year time limit for court actions for baggage, delay, or bodily injury. Some notices must be given much sooner. Do not wait, as deadlines can be strict and missing them can bar your claim.
Yes. Expect restrictions near airports, heliports, military sites, prisons, and critical infrastructure, as well as temporary restrictions during emergencies like wildfires. Additional rules often apply over archaeological and protected natural sites. Consult official airspace and UAS zone information before each flight.
Not necessarily. Privacy and nuisance laws still apply, and flying low or hovering over homes and hotels can infringe privacy or cause disturbance. Keep safe distances, avoid filming private spaces without consent, and respect requests to stop. Insurers may exclude coverage for privacy breaches.
Commercial activities commonly require third party liability insurance and sometimes higher limits than hobby use. Clients and venues may request proof of insurance and compliance with EU and Greek rules. A lawyer can help you set contract terms and confirm coverage.
The national accident investigation authority conducts independent safety investigations to determine causes and issue safety recommendations. This process is separate from liability or criminal proceedings. Participants are expected to preserve evidence and cooperate with requests.
Yes, but the window to challenge an administrative fine can be short. Appeals typically involve written submissions, evidence of compliance or mitigation, and sometimes technical documentation for the aircraft or mission. Seek legal advice quickly to meet deadlines.
Often yes, if the amount is within the procedure threshold. This can be a cost effective way to pursue compensation when the airline refuses. A lawyer can assess jurisdiction, documents you need, and the best forum for your case.
Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority. The national regulator for civil aviation, responsible for licensing, oversight, UAS registration, airspace information, and administrative enforcement.
European Union Aviation Safety Agency. Sets EU wide safety and air operations rules, including the drone framework used in Greece.
National accident investigation authority for Greece. Investigates accidents and serious incidents for safety purposes and publishes reports and safety recommendations.
Ministry of Culture local Ephorate of Antiquities. Issues permits and guidance for filming or flying near archaeological sites and monuments in the Arta area.
Municipality of Arta and neighboring municipalities. Provide local permissions for takeoff and landing from public spaces, and information on local bylaws affecting drone operations.
Hellenic Police and Fire Service. Issue temporary airspace restrictions during public safety operations, wildfire response, and major events.
Consumer protection bodies in Greece. Offer guidance on air passenger rights, complaint procedures, and mediation options.
Local bar associations and legal aid services. Can refer you to lawyers with aviation, consumer, or administrative law experience in Epirus and nearby regions.
Define your issue clearly. Are you seeking passenger compensation, defending a drone fine, planning a commercial aerial project, or addressing a privacy or nuisance concern. Write down the facts, dates, and anyone involved.
Preserve documents and evidence. Keep tickets, boarding passes, receipts, airline emails, drone logs, risk assessments, flight approvals, photos, and videos. Export data from your drone and controller before it is overwritten.
Check immediate deadlines. Passenger claims can have short notice requirements and Montreal Convention claims have a two year limit. Administrative appeals for fines can run on short windows. If in doubt, consult a lawyer promptly.
Assess permits and compliance. For upcoming projects, verify UAS operator registration, pilot competency, insurance, airspace checks, and any cultural or environmental permits needed in the Arta area.
Consult a local lawyer. Choose counsel familiar with EU and Greek aviation rules, consumer law, and administrative procedure. Lawyers in Arta or nearby cities who handle aviation and technology matters can coordinate with national authorities when needed.
Discuss strategy and costs. Ask about fixed fees for document review, letters to airlines, permit applications, or appeals. For litigation, discuss timelines, evidence, and likelihood of settlement versus court action.
Act professionally in the field. Whether flying a drone or dealing with airline staff, polite documentation focused communication preserves your position and helps your lawyer present a clear, credible case.
Note. This guide provides general information and is not legal advice. Laws and procedures change. For advice on your situation, speak with a qualified lawyer licensed in Greece.
