Operation of Model Aircraft within Clubs and Associations under Article 16 of Regulation (EU) 2019/947
 
As an alternative to operating within the "Open" or "Specific" categories, model aircraft can also be flown within the framework of a club or association.
 
Strictly speaking, an authorization under Article 16 still falls within the "Specific" category. However, it significantly reduces the administrative approval process, making it the most common approach for model aircraft clubs that wish to operate beyond the limits of the "Open" category.
 
For further details, please refer to Austro Control’s guidelines on model aircraft club operations.
Diagram showing the classification of model aircraft operations into 'Open' and 'Specific' categories, with subcategories for model aircraft clubs and individual applications under the Specific category.

According to the EU Regulation (EU) 2019/947, a model aircraft club or association is defined as an organization based in an EU Member State that is dedicated to conducting recreational flights, airshows, sporting activities, or competitions using unmanned aircraft.