You can bring a drone into Namibia subject to Namibia Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) regulations. If you are planning on bringing a drone with you there are special considerations for foreigners flying drones. It is also good idea to check with the international flight carrier you will be flying with as to whether there are any specific requirements that need to be met.
In order to fly and operate a drone within Namibia you must obtain written authorization from:
- The Namibia Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA)
- NCAA for approval to fly above 45 metres (150 feet) above ground and/or within published areas/airspace or within 5 nautical miles of an unmanned aerodrome
- Namibia Film Commission (NFC) if you intend to make a video or movie
- Ministry of Environment and Tourism (MET) if you plan to fly in a National Park or Nature Reserve
- Any private property owner of a property you will fly over
- Aerodrome or airfields property owner when flying within 5 nautical miles or 10 kilometres of a runway
Note: Foreign nationals to Namibia must submit applications for permission to fly recreationally at least 60 calendar days before and commercially at least 120 days before the intended flight.
NB: Remember there are rules that must be adhered to when flying or operating a drone as follows:
- Do not fly over 45 metres (150ft) above any surface
- Do not fly over populated areas including towns and cities
- You may not fly within published controlled airspace or zone
- You may not fly in prohibited, restricted or dangerous areas
- Do not fly within 5 nautical miles (10km) radius of any airfield
- Do not fly over vehicles where you could distract the driver
- Do not fly a drone from a moving vehicle
- You may not fly over private property without consent
- You may not fly near or over military, police or prison facilities
For more information on who to contact and how to register, click here.