Bulgaria’s National Assembly has approved significant amendments to the Civil Aviation Act at second reading, introducing new restrictions on drone use and strengthening overall aviation security.
The changes reflect the country’s growing focus on safeguarding its airspace and adapting to the increasing use of unmanned aerial systems.
Under the revised legislation, drone operations are now strictly prohibited in restricted zones and within secure airport boundaries unless prior authorization is obtained.
In cases of violation, authorities will have the power to force drones to land or remove them entirely. Responsibility for any damage caused during such operations will rest with the operator.
The Council of Ministers will establish detailed procedures for forced landings and coercive measures, drawing on proposals from the Ministers of Defense, Transport and Communications, Interior, Foreign Affairs, and the head of the State Agency for National Security.
Importantly, the law makes exceptions for drone operations carried out by state authorities in the public interest. This includes activities related to national defense, internal security, crime prevention, disaster response, fire safety, and emergency medical services.
In addition, the Council of Ministers will retain the authority to designate further areas of airspace where drone flights may be restricted or banned.
Alongside drone regulations, lawmakers have also targeted unlawful emissions in radio frequency bands critical to civil aviation, as well as electromagnetic interference that threatens communication, navigation, and surveillance systems.
Aviation inspectors from the General Directorate “Civil Aviation Administration” will be responsible for enforcing these provisions.
Inspectors are empowered to conduct on-site checks and even require individuals engaged in aviation safety tasks to undergo psychoactive substance tests. Refusal to comply will carry penalties.
The amendments also explicitly prohibit aviation personnel from working under the influence of psychoactive substances. This includes maintenance staff, air traffic controllers, navigation operators, and passenger service workers.
The move reflects heightened concern for ensuring safety in an industry where even small lapses can have catastrophic consequences.
Cybersecurity has also been placed at the forefront of Bulgaria’s aviation safety framework. Airport operators and air carriers must now implement security measures set out in the National Security Program.
Ground handling operators are additionally required to develop and maintain their own security programs, subject to approval from the General Director of the Civil Aviation Administration.
The government’s stated goal is to bolster aviation safety and security while addressing the challenges of new technologies. The integration of unmanned aerial systems into national airspace has created opportunities but also risks that demand strict oversight.
By tightening drone use regulations, safeguarding critical aviation systems, and mandating cybersecurity compliance, Bulgaria aims to align its practices with international standards.
The sweeping measures signal a comprehensive effort to protect both passengers and infrastructure while reinforcing the resilience of Bulgaria’s aviation sector in an era of evolving threats.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members