Philippines Drone Laws (updated for 2020)

philippines-drone-laws

All Drone Laws in the Philippines for 2020 (Complete Guide)

This is a guide for the Philippines drone laws in 2020 (updated every year) where you'll get a clue about what you can or shouldn't do while flying a quadcopter anywhere in this country.

Table of Contents

Can I fly a drone in the Philippines?

Drone laws here are governed by The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines which has the 

Exclusive oversight powers in regards to drones and drone-related policymaking. 

 

How do I keep up with the latest communications on drone policy in the Philippines?

The CAAP mainly relays its latest policy instructions through these channels:

  1. Website 
  2. Facebook
  3. Twitter
  4. Youtube

 

Contact information

CAAP Telephone:+63(2)944 20 30

How are drones classified in the Philippines?

 

The regulatory body CAAP classifies drones as commercial (RPAS) and recreational.

What are the Drone Laws in the Philippines?

drone laws by country updated map

The rules depend on how much your drone weighs, and if it's a recreational or commercial endeavor.

  • weight icon 500g
    Weight limit permit
    No need for a permit when flying recreational drones weighing less than 7 Kg.
  • Don't fly near highly poplated areas
    Such as schools, churches, mosques,marketplaces, etc.
  • line of sight icon
    Line of sight
    Keep your done within the visual line-of-sight of an observer who is next to you or in direct communication with you
  • moon day icon night flying
    No night flying
    Do not fly at night unless your drone has lighting
  • plane icon
    No flying near airports
    Do not interfere with a manned aircraft
  • crowd icon
    Don't fly over crowds
    30 meters from the elderly, children, vulnerable groups, or expectant women
  • ambulance icon
    Don't interfere with emergency situations
    Areas of national interest such as military bases.

Frequently asked questions

faq-what-should-you-look-for-in-a-drone

Here are some questions that you might want to have answered before you fly a drone in the Philippines.

Do I need a permit to fly a drone in the Philippines?

You do not need a permit for recreational drone flying but it is required for any commercial activities.

Can I bring a drone into the Philippines?

Before entering the Philippines with a drone, get a merchandise passport for your UAV equipment. This will help your entry through customs flow smoothly and shield you from import taxes.

Can I be penalized for breaking the drone rules?

Yes. Civil aviation has laid out stiff penalties that regulate UAV operations. This focusses on areas such as airports and other no-fly zone areas. Operators contravening the rules will get fined P300,000 to P500,000 per unauthorized flight.

Can I bring a drone into the Philippines?

As a foreigner, you do not need to have a permit to fly your drone. However, this is only limited to recreational use. The drone must also be regarded as ‘light’ and adhere to all other rules laid out by the Philippine authorities.

Are there restrictions on drone flying?

  • Do not fly over 400 feet
  • Keep off heavily populated areas
  • Do not go within a 10 Km radius of an airport
  • Keep off prohibited airspaces
  • You cannot fly a commercial drone without receiving an RPA certificate
  • Over 150 Kg drones need special certification i.e Certificate of Air Worthiness
  • Only fly drones during the day
  • Drone shows or air flying displays need CAAP permission.

Rules for commercial drone operators (RPAS)

  • To receive the RPA certificate, one must:

    • Show an organizational structure that meets the CAAP threshold
    • Display their qualifications and credentials that meet the task requirements
    • Have the right facilities and equipment.