Agencies Responsible for regulating drones in the Republic of Maldives
Maldives Civil Aviation Authority (MCAA)
Updated July 22, 2022
UAS Laws – General rules for flying drones in the Maldives
The Maldives agency responsible for drone safety, MCAA, has provided a number of internet-accessible details on flying a drone for fun or for work. The highlights are enumerated below. For more details, go to the links above.
Are drones allowed in the Maldives?
Here are the most important rules to know for flying a drone in the Maldives:
How to get Authorization to Fly Drones in Maldives?
Currently, all drone operations are reviewed case-by-case, and the following procedures must be followed.
STEP 1 – Approval from the Hotel or Island
If Recreational Video / Photography
Approval should be obtained hotel or the local island council before the operation.
If Commercial Video / Photography
Approval should be obtained from the National Centre for the Arts before the operation. Fill their application form and email info@nca.gov.mv.
STEP 2 – Approval from the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF)
Obtain approval from the Maldives National Defence Force. Fill in their application form and email it to admin@defence.gov.mv. This step may be completed concurrently with Step 1.
STEP 3 – Approval from the CAA
Once approval has been obtained from the hotel/island and the MNDF, apply to the CAA using this application form and send it to ans@caa.gov.mv. ENSURE to include a copy of the permit from MNDF with the application.
Restrict drone operations to below 400 feet.
Notes for recreational drone pilots flying for fun in the Maldives
Follow the general rules listed above, but check for updates by visiting the regulator’s links provided.
Notes for operating Commercial Drone Services in the Maldives
Follow the general rules listed above, but check for updates by visiting the regulator’s links provided.
Useful published information on flying drones in the Maldives
Here is a sample of what you might expect if you follow the drone laws and fly in the Maldives…
NOTE: Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (SUAS), Small UAS, Remote Piloted Aerial Systems (RPAS), unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), Unmanned Aerial System (UAS), and drone are interchangeable terms unless specified. Model, toy, remote-controlled, and RC aircraft may be covered by the same regulations unless specified.
Traveling with a Drone?
Click here to read our Comprehensive Guide For Traveling With A Drone.
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