Drone Regulations in Nepal: Navigating the Skies with Safety and Compliance

Published On : 17th Nov, 2024 By Himalayan Dream Team

Drones, or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, have changed the world, from Nepal to everywhere else, by offering a wide range of applications: stunning aerial photography of the Himalayas and vital support for disaster relief operations. That capability for reaching far-flung areas with real-time data has made drones indispensable in such industries as tourism, agriculture, and emergency response. However, with increased flying of drones, strict regulation will help in ensuring that safety, privacy, and national security are upheld to enable good drone operations countrywide.

Table of Content

The paper goes in-depth into the detailed landscape of regulations touching on drones in Nepal, with a focal point on legal frameworks set up by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal, also known as CAAN. This shall look into operational requirements, registration processes, and penalties arising out of non-compliance, using recent data and reports. By understanding these regulations, users of drones will be able to exploit the benefits accruing from this cutting-edge technology while observing the rules that make possible the safe introduction of drones into Nepal's airspace.

The Rise of Drone Usage in Nepal

Just imagine flying a drone over Nepal's unique and varied topography, landscape after breathtaking landscape. Drones are highly utilized by today's photographers, filmmakers, surveyors, and researchers to capture high-resolution images and valued data from very remote and hard-to-reach areas. Whether it is filming the majestic peaks of the Himalayas or conducting land surveys in tough terrain, drones have indeed become a helpful tool for a variety of industries here in Nepal and open a whole new perspective and capabilities.

Records from the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal show that in 2022, the number of drone registrations increased by 35% compared to the previous year, depicting the growing interest in drones throughout the nation. It reflects an increasing interest in capturing images and videos from above, and also the increasing uses of drones in agriculture, development of infrastructure, and environmental research studies. Given this rapid growth, it is important to regulate and use such drones responsibly for maintaining safety and security with the benefit of this innovative technology.

Regulatory Framework for Drones

The main regulatory body for drone activities in the country is known as CAAN-the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal. With a view not to allowing the ever-growing use of drones to compromise public safety and national security, CAAN established a broad regulatory framework. Such a regulatory framework is supposed to strike a balance between fostering innovation and ensuring strict maintenance of safety standards. Key regulations include mandatory drone registration, restrictions on operational areas such as no-fly zones, and altitude limits that will protect both people and property from potential risks associated with drone operations.

For commercial drone operators, CAAN has imposed further licenses, whereby businesses using drones for professional purposes must ensure strict adherence to safety protocols. These regulations regulate industries such as agriculture, filmmaking, and surveying, in which drones have become a key tool. By developing a set of clear rules, CAAN encourages responsible usage of drones and at the same time enables Nepal to reap benefits from the progress being made in the field of drones in various sectors.

Drone Registration Process

Registration and Permit

Drones must be registered with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAAN) in Nepal.
If your registration is successful, a unique identification number is issued for your drone.
All drone flights up to 200 feet in public spaces require approval from the local administration office. In national parks, for example, the national park administration is responsible.
The permit is valid for three months.

Additional Note for Foreign Operators

Drones are not allowed for tourists without obtaining valid permission from

Ministry of Home Affairs
Department of Tourism
Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal
Concerned Conservation Area/ National Parks

Temporary Drone Registration (Only for Foreigner)

Please visit FSSD (Flight Safety Standard Department) office along with Drone.

Phone no: 4111115, 4111075, 4111042

Email: drone@caannepal.gov.np

Address: Sinamangal Rd, Kathmandu 44600

Required Documents for Temporary License

Passport with valid visa
Letter of commitment from applicant to comply with the existing UAV requirement of Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) and Ministry of Home Affairs (MOHA) UAV working procedure 2019 including flight information(purpose, location and duration of operation)
If any additional document regarding drone operation

Note:Drone should have CE marking

General Rules for Flying Drones in Nepal

Rule	Description
Weight and Altitude Restrictions	Drones weighing more than 2 kilograms (4.5 pounds) flying at an altitude above 400 feet require prior approval from the Department of Tourism, Ministry of Home Affairs, and CAAN. Drones weighing less than 2 kilograms can be flown on private property and below 200 feet without CAAN authorization.
Reckless Flying Prohibition	Flying drones recklessly or in a manner that poses risks to people or property is strictly prohibited.
Maximum Altitude and Distance	Drones should not exceed a maximum altitude of 120 meters (394 feet) and a maximum distance of 500 meters (1,640 feet) from the operator.
Prohibition of Dropping Items	Dropping any articles or animals using drones is strictly prohibited.
Distance from Congested Areas	Flying drones over or within 150 meters (492 feet) of congested areas is prohibited.
Distance from Assemblies	Drones should not be flown over or within 150 meters (492 feet) of open-air assemblies with more than 1,000 people.
Distance from Vessels, Vehicles, or Structures	Operators must maintain at least 50 meters (164 feet) of distance from any vessels, vehicles, or structures.
Visual Line of Sight	Drone operators must maintain unaided visual contact with the drone at all times during its operation.
Restrictions Near Military Installations and Airports	Flying near military installations, airports, or strategic infrastructures is prohibited. Always maintain a safe distance from these sensitive areas.
National Parks and Conservation Areas	National Parks and Conservation Areas are restricted regions for flying drones. Prior permission may be required, or flying may be prohibited altogether in these areas.

No Fly Zones for Drones in Nepal

Location	Description
Airports	Flying a drone within 5 kilometers of any airport or landing strip is strictly prohibited for safety reasons, ensuring no interference with flight operations.
Military Installations	Drones are not allowed to be flown over military installations or in proximity to military equipment, including barracks, training grounds, and bases.
Government Buildings	Drone operations are prohibited over government buildings, including embassies, consulates, and other government facilities to protect security and privacy.
Heritage Sites	Heritage sites, including temples, monuments, and cultural landmarks, are designated no-fly zones for drones to preserve their sanctity and prevent disturbances.
National Parks	Drones are not allowed to be flown over national parks, such as Sagarmatha National Park and Chitwan National Park, to protect wildlife and the environment.
Residential Areas	Flying drones over residential areas is restricted. Operators must avoid flying near people, vehicles, or buildings to ensure privacy and safety.

Operational Restrictions and No-Fly Zones

To prioritize public safety, the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has established designated no-fly zones across the country. These restricted areas include locations near airports, military bases, and government buildings, where drone operations pose significant risks to air traffic and national security. Additionally, drones are not allowed to fly over crowded places, such as markets, festivals, and public events, without obtaining special permits. These restrictions are in place to prevent accidents and protect the privacy and safety of individuals in densely populated areas.

Violating these no-fly zone regulations can lead to severe consequences, including hefty fines and the confiscation of the drone. CAAN enforces these rules strictly to ensure responsible drone usage and to minimize the potential risks associated with unregulated operations. By adhering to these guidelines, drone operators in Nepal can contribute to a safe and secure airspace while taking advantage of the many benefits that drone technology offers.

Licensing and Permissions for Commercial Use

Commercial flying of drones over Nepal is qualified by the license from the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal, and to get such a license it would call for comprehensive training and a competency examination to prove the ability to safely and responsibly fly the drones. This means only the qualified ones can manage the complex requirements of commercial drone activities so that risks associated with improper use are reduced. CAAN licensing processes have maintained some level of safety in sensitive areas that involved filmmaking, agriculture, and infrastructural development, where drones are important.

Apart from the licensing processes for the commercial drone operators, they are also required to obtain flight permits for every single operation. These permits have highly detailed information about flight paths, time, and purpose. The process is tight, with monitoring and regulation of the activities of drones not to fly over forbidden or sensitive areas. In so doing, the CAAN aims to minimize risk factors and ensure that commercial use of drones within Nepal keeps pace with safety standards in innovating diverse industries.

Data Privacy and Security Concerns

As drone usage continues to grow in Nepal, concerns regarding data privacy and security have become increasingly important. Drones equipped with high-resolution cameras and sensors have the capability to capture sensitive information, raising the risk of unintentional privacy breaches. Whether used for commercial or recreational purposes, drone operators must be aware of these risks and take proactive steps to protect individual privacy and prevent misuse of data. These concerns have prompted the need for strict oversight in the collection, processing, and sharing of data gathered through drone technology.

To safeguard data privacy, the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has implemented stringent guidelines governing the collection and storage of information obtained by drones. Operators are required to handle all captured data ethically, ensuring it is used only for the intended purposes and in compliance with applicable laws. This regulatory framework not only protects personal and national security but also promotes responsible drone usage, enabling the continued growth of drone technology in Nepal without compromising the public's trust and privacy.

Case Studies: Enforcement and Compliance

Several case studies illustrate the strict enforcement of drone regulations in Nepal. In 2021, a foreign tourist faced hefty fines and had his drone confiscated for flying over a restricted area near Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport, violating safety protocols. This incident serves as a clear example of the importance of adhering to no-fly zones, especially around sensitive areas like airports. The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) took swift action to ensure public safety and prevent potential hazards, reinforcing the need for strict compliance with drone regulations.

Another case involved a local filmmaker who was penalized for operating a drone without obtaining the necessary permits from CAAN. This case highlights the importance of acquiring proper licenses and flight approvals for commercial drone activities. These instances underscore CAAN’s dedication to enforcing regulations and demonstrate that non-compliance can result in significant consequences. By maintaining a robust enforcement policy, CAAN ensures that drone operators in Nepal adhere to the laws, safeguarding both public safety and national security.

The Role of Technology in Enhancing Regulation

Technological advancements are playing a pivotal role in strengthening drone regulation in Nepal. The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has invested in advanced tracking and monitoring systems to oversee drone operations nationwide. These sophisticated systems allow for real-time tracking of drones, ensuring that operators follow approved flight paths and adhere to regulations. By leveraging this technology, CAAN can better manage drone activities, minimizing risks and maintaining airspace safety across the country.

Furthermore, the integration of geofencing technology has been a game-changer in preventing drones from entering restricted areas, such as no-fly zones near airports, military bases, and sensitive locations. Geofencing automatically restricts drones from flying into prohibited zones, enhancing the effectiveness of drone regulation. These technological improvements not only boost safety but also foster responsible drone usage, allowing operators to enjoy the benefits of drone technology without compromising security or public safety in Nepal.

Challenges and Future Directions

Despite Nepal's robust regulatory framework for drones, several challenges persist. One key issue is ensuring compliance among hobbyist drone users, who may not be fully aware of the rules governing drone operations. Additionally, evolving privacy concerns, particularly with drones equipped with advanced cameras and sensors, present new challenges in safeguarding personal and national security. The rapid pace of technological advancements further complicates regulation, as new drone capabilities often outpace existing laws and enforcement strategies.

In response to these challenges, the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) is actively reviewing and updating its drone regulations. By staying proactive and adapting to emerging trends, CAAN aims to maintain a balance between innovation and safety. The goal is to foster a safe and regulated drone ecosystem that supports technological growth while addressing potential risks to privacy, security, and airspace management. Through continuous updates, CAAN ensures that Nepal remains at the forefront of responsible and sustainable drone usage.

Fees for Documentary/Filming Purposes:

When using drones for documentary or filming activities, the following fees apply:

Foreign Nationals: US$ 1,500
SAARC Nationals: Rs. 50,000
Nepali Citizens: Rs. 10,000

Legal Consequences and Punishments

Non-compliance with drone regulations in Nepal can lead to severe consequences. Operators found violating the rules may face fines ranging from NPR 50,000 to NPR 500,000, depending on the severity of the violation. In extreme cases, such as endangering public safety or national security, offenders may also face imprisonment. These stringent penalties serve as a deterrent, encouraging responsible drone usage.

Drone Regulation Data in Nepal
Year	Registered Drones	Violations Reported	Fine Issued(NPR)	Confiscated Drones
2020	2000	150	750000	10
2021	3200	200	1000000	15
2022	4500	250	1250000	20
2023	5000	300	1500000	25

Punishments and Fines for Drone Violations in Nepal

Violation	Fine (NPR)	Punishment
Unauthorized Drone Flights	5,000 - 50,000	Confiscation of drone, fines, and potential legal action for repeated offenses.
Privacy Infringement	10,000 - 30,000	Civil lawsuits, compensation claims, and possible criminal charges.
National Security Breach	Up to 50,000	Up to 3 years of imprisonment, drone confiscation, and severe legal consequences.
Flying in No-Fly Zones	5,000 - 50,000	Immediate drone confiscation and fines, possible imprisonment depending on location.
Environmental Violations	10,000 - 50,000	Fines for disturbing wildlife or ecosystems, drone confiscation.

Conclusion

These are the regulations concerning drones in Nepal that will help in maintaining safety and adding to the potential of this fast-evolving technology. The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal has set comprehensive guidelines regarding the registration, operation, and licensing of drones. Regulation of that kind ensures recreational and commercial drone users stay within the legal ambit for the safety of airspace, privacy, and national security. These will provide a safe opportunity for the drone enthusiasts in Nepal and help in the responsible usage of the technology.

With continuous development in drone technology, CAAN continuously evolves its policies, matching up with the latest developments. The regulations include no-fly zones, altitude restrictions, and operational permits that ensure no interference with traditional aviation or sensitive areas is made by the drones. This regulatory approach has helped harness the benefits of drones in tourism, agriculture, and rescue operations while ensuring public safety. Innovation coupled with safety-Nepal stands well placed to lead from the front in responsible usage of drones in the region.