GDPR and drones

Yes, GDPR applies to drones usage when drones record images of people. If this recording is for scientific research, according to article 89 (2) GDPR you might qualify for a derogation from GDPR requirements, related to processing for scientific research. However, recital 156 requires you to make sure you implemented the necessary controls to ensure data minimization and data pseudonymization or even anonymization of personal data once the purpose of processing is fulfilled.

Find more details about GDPR requirements at the following links:

• A summary of 10 key GDPR requirements https://advisera.com/eugdpracademy/knowledgebase/a-summary-of-10-key-gdpr-requirements/
• Full text of article 89 in GDPR: https://advisera.com/eugdpracademy/gdpr/safeguards-and-derogations-relating-to-processing-for-archiving-purposes-in-the-public-interest-scientific-or-historical-research-purposes-or-statistical-purposes/