Drone operators using the EPWA CTR airspace will gain easier access to controlled airspace. The Polish Air Navigation Services Agency (PANSA) is introducing a new configuration of RPA Areas (Recognized Airspace Areas for UAS Operations) within the controlled airspace of Warsaw Chopin Airport. The changes will make drone operation requirements more transparent and better aligned with actual air traffic conditions.
The most significant change is the redesign of the existing RPA map. While users will continue to use the familiar color-coded classification, the boundaries of the areas, the number of zones, and the applicable operational conditions have been revised. The new RPA structure has been developed based on an updated safety assessment and current aviation procedures. As a result, the airspace available for UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System) operations has been organized in a way that more accurately reflects the actual operational possibilities.
🔵 Blue Areas are zones where flights may be conducted up to a specified altitude without obtaining approval from Air Traffic Services (ATS). These are the most user-friendly areas for drone operators.
🟢 Green Areas allow drone operations without additional coordination up to a designated altitude above ground level (AGL). Operations above this altitude require authorization from the Tower Controller (TWR).
🟡 Yellow Areas also permit UAS operations without prior approval up to predefined altitude limits. However, the applicable altitude restrictions have been established individually for each specific area.
🔴 Red Areas cover locations where drone operations require the highest level of attention and may be subject to additional operational restrictions. At the same time, the extent of these areas has been reduced compared to the current arrangement, resulting in less airspace being subject to the most restrictive conditions.
The new RPA framework has been designed to accommodate all categories of UAS operations conducted within the EPWA CTR, including both VLOS (Visual Line of Sight) flights, performed within the pilot’s direct visual range, and BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) operations, conducted beyond direct visual contact. By aligning the RPA boundaries more precisely with applicable aviation procedures, operators will be able to assess more easily the feasibility of their planned operations and the requirements for obtaining ATS authorization. Regardless of the type of operation, all applicable rules and restrictions will be presented to users through the DroneTower application.
The changes will be reflected in the DroneTower application, where operators will receive up-to-date information on the rules applicable to a given area and the availability of flight activation. During the development of the new RPA structure, particular emphasis was placed on the user perspective, with the objective of minimizing the number of areas subject to the highest level of restrictions.
The new RPA configuration will become operational within the EPWA CTR on 29 October 2026.
