THE ESSENTIALS
Before you start
- ANAC distinguishes the range above 900 g up to 20 kg.
- Above 20 kg a separate European framework applies.
- Insurance does not replace other flight checks.
The range described by ANAC
In its information updated on 26 February 2026, ANAC explains compulsory liability insurance for unmanned aircraft with maximum operational mass above 900 grams and up to 20 kg, under the national regime and Order 2/2021.
For maximum operational mass above 20 kg, ANAC refers to Regulation (EC) 785/2004 insurance requirements. Do not apply the same conclusion to every weight and operation.
Sources: ANAC — Sou obrigado a ter um seguro? Atualização de 26/02/2026 ↗ · ANAC / Diário da República — Portaria n.º 2/2021, seguro obrigatório de UAS ↗
Use technical documents
Our suggested preparation is to keep the manufacturer's documentation and highlight maximum operational mass. Add the model identification and intended use. If the documents show different mass concepts, ask which field is relevant.
Fictional example: an operator reads «850 g» in an advert, but the technical file contains a different operational limit. Clarify the specification and applicable rule before concluding no duty exists. This example does not classify a particular model.
A lighter aircraft does not settle every case
ANAC also flags higher-risk specific or certified category operations below 900 g, and destination-country law for cross-border operations. Weight alone does not settle every situation.
Prepare a note with country, activity, operational category and private or professional use. Ask the competent authority to clarify the flight's classification where needed.
Sources: ANAC — Sou obrigado a ter um seguro? Atualização de 26/02/2026 ↗
Prepare insurance and flight checks separately
Send technical details and the use scenario to RMACHADO for a quote. Ask the proposal to identify the operator, aircraft, territory and activity considered; keep the explanations with the documents.
Maintain a separate list for other flight requirements, such as registration, competencies, authorisations and applicable zones. A policy alone does not show that a flight is authorised. Damage to the drone itself is also a separate question from liability towards third parties.
KEEP THESE QUESTIONS
Your checklist for the next conversation
- Check maximum operational mass in technical documents.
- Identify operator, model, activity and territory.
- Clarify category and applicable rules with the authority where needed.
- Check the proposal and flight requirements separately.
FROM THE ARTICLE TO YOUR SITUATION
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Sources and transparency
Content updated on .
Consultation dates are stated in individual references when available.
Numerical examples are fictional and explain concepts. Editorial interpretations are identified in the text.
- ANAC — Sou obrigado a ter um seguro? Atualização de 26/02/2026 ↗
- ANAC / Diário da República — Portaria n.º 2/2021, seguro obrigatório de UAS ↗
Information from RMACHADO GROUP. This is not an insurance offer or individual advice. Covers, acceptance, exclusions, sums insured and costs depend on the policy. The intermediary does not underwrite the risks.