Do not leave it to chance when travelling overseas with your drone. Drone laws vary enormously between countries: some welcome recreational pilots, some require permits or registration, and a handful ban drones entirely, confiscating them at the border.
How to check any country’s drone laws
- Check the destination’s civil aviation authority website first; it is the only authoritative source
- Search for the country name plus "drone laws" and cross-check at least two recent sources, as rules change frequently
- Ask the airline and check customs rules, since import restrictions are separate from flight rules
- When in doubt, contact the aviation authority directly before you fly
Rules that apply almost everywhere
- Fly within visual line of sight
- Stay below 120 metres (400 feet)
- Keep away from airports and controlled airspace
- Never fly over crowds
- Respect privacy and no-fly zones around government and military sites
If you follow those five rules, you are unlikely to get into serious trouble anywhere, but always verify the specifics for your destination.
Flying at home in Australia
In Australia, CASA sets the drone rules. If you plan to fly commercially, you will need a Remote Pilot Licence (RePL). Our CASA-approved courses cover everything you need to fly safely and legally.