European legal framework and national implementation
The new regulation is based on European Regulation (EU) No. 1178/2011 on aircrew, which allows member states to recognise licences issued by third countries. This European opening clause is now being specified for air sports equipment operators who have not been trained or licensed within the scope of the German Aviation Personnel Regulation (LuftPersV).
Affected in particular are air sports equipment as defined in the former Annex II of the Basic Regulation - i.e. those that are not fully integrated into the European EASA system. These typically include
- Microlight aircraft
- Hang gliders and paragliders
- certain historical or national aerial sports equipment
- Parachutes
The new announcement creates a formalised procedure for their recognition.
Principle: initially only valid in the issuing country
A pilot's licence for air sports equipment operators issued outside the LuftPersV only entitles the holder to operate air sports equipment registered in the issuing country. There is no automatic authorisation for air sports equipment registered in Germany.
Such a licence can only become effective for the operation of air sports equipment approved in Germany if it is expressly recognised. This applies to air sports equipment that:
- are authorised for sale in Germany,
- have undergone a type examination in accordance with LuftGerPV,
- or have a national type or device authorisation.
Recognition can be general or individual.
Role of the authorised representative according to § 31c LuftVG
Recognition is granted by the responsible authorised representative in accordance with Section 31c of the Aviation Act. In practice, this concerns the air sports associations or bodies authorised by the federal government.
The residence component is important: Recognition is generally aimed at holders with permanent residence abroad who are only staying in Germany temporarily. If the licence holder takes up permanent residence in Germany, the recognition may be valid for a maximum of six months from this point in time.
This clarifies that this is not a permanent „parallel licensing“, but a transitional or visiting arrangement.
Recognition may be subject to conditions
Recognition is not automatic. It can be made dependent on
- proof of medical fitness in accordance with LuftPersV
- proof of professional qualifications
- additional theoretical or practical examinations
- Language skills
- Conditions, time limits or restrictions
The competent authority can therefore check whether the training and qualifications meet the German requirements. If necessary, supplementary examinations or additional training measures may be required.
In the case of individual recognition, the corresponding certificate must be carried when carrying out the activity.
Training licences: No automatic equalisation
The regulation for foreign training licences deserves special attention. An instructor licence for non-powered aircraft issued abroad does not automatically entitle the holder to provide training in accordance with LuftPersV standards in Germany.
Separate recognition is also required here. This can again be general or individual and is also subject to the technical requirements of the LuftPersV.
For clubs and training organisations, this means that foreign flight instructors may not be used in German training without formal recognition.
Possibility of German ID cards
A corresponding German ID card can be issued on request for recognised licences and authorisations. This facilitates practical handling during inspections and in club operations.
However, there is no automatic conversion to a full LuftPersV licence. Anyone wishing to operate permanently in Germany must fulfil the regular national requirements.
Significance for air sports practice
The new regulation creates clarity in an area that was previously handled inconsistently in some cases. The question of the recognition of foreign licences was regularly relevant in practice, particularly in the ultralight sector or in flying areas close to the border.
Typical constellations are
- foreign air sports enthusiasts who wish to fly temporarily in Germany
- international competitions
- Training visits
- Relocation of residence
The clear six-month rule for taking up residence defines a transitional period after which a full national licence will be required.
Entry into force and transitional arrangements
The new regulation comes into force on 1 March 2026. At the same time, a previous announcement will be cancelled. This means that uniform requirements for the recognition of air sports licences not covered by the LuftPersV will apply from this date.
Conclusion
The new regulation on the recognition of foreign air sports licences strengthens legal certainty and creates transparent criteria for pilots and training companies. It continues to enable international mobility in air sports, but clarifies that the national requirements remain decisive for permanent activity in Germany.
For air sports clubs and licence holders, it is advisable to check recognition procedures at an early stage - especially in the event of relocation or longer-term stays. Binding and clearly defined framework conditions will apply from March 2026.
Source references:
NFL (the link requires a subscription to Eisenschmidt)
