For many people, traveling includes drones in their luggage, both at home and abroad. With the EU-wide drone regulation that has been in effect since the beginning of the year, a drone registered in Austria can in principle be flown anywhere in the EU. But caution is advised, especially in summer - extreme heat can affect aircraft, batteries and pilots.
If you are travelling by car or camper, you should make sure that the drone is not in the vehicle when it is hot - temperatures inside the vehicle can reach up to 70 degrees. This is particularly stressful for the delicate batteries. "Temperatures above 60 degrees damage the cells and the battery loses capacity, regardless of whether it is in flight or not. This is irreversible," advises ÖAMTC drone expert Benjamin Hetzendorfer.
After flying, it is always advisable to let the drone cool down in the shade," explains the mobility club's drone expert. Pilots should also think about self-protection in very hot weather. Hetzendorfer: "Flying a drone requires concentration. You are a participant in air traffic, so you always have to be alert and also look to see if other aircraft are approaching. It is also advisable to take regular breaks, drink enough and find yourself a shady spot."
Air travel - drone in the suitcase, batteries in hand luggage
When traveling by plane, the drone can be transported in a suitcase. The batteries, however, must be carried in hand luggage. "For the particularly delicate lithium polymer batteries, it is advisable to transport them in a fireproof storage bag, such as a so-called Lipo Bag," advises the ÖAMTC drone expert.
and 