28/09/2023 (Agence Europe) – The European Commission decided, on Thursday 28 September, to open infringement proceedings by sending a letter of formal notice to Slovakia for failing to comply with the requirements governing the operation of unmanned aircrafts. Slovakia has failed to comply with Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/947, which provides for the designation of a competent authority responsible for the overall enforcement of the Regulation. This authority is also responsible for essential safety functions and for setting up the registration system for drone operators. According to the Commission, the current situation does not guarantee a level playing field throughout the EU, and may even create dangerous conditions for drone operations. Slovakia now has two months to reply to the arguments raised by the Commission. If this is not the case, the Commission may send a reasoned opinion. (AD)