26/02/2025
IMPORTANT UPDATE FOR DRONE USERS!
The Maldives Civil Aviation Authority (MCAA) has introduced updated aviation regulations under the MCAR-2 Rules of the Air, which came into effect on 20 February 2025.
Remotely Piloted Aircraft (Drones): New provisions outline operational restrictions and certification requirements for remotely piloted aircraft, ensuring safer integration.
Those using drones for commercial or recreational purposes will need to comply with new licensing and operational guidelines, preventing unauthorised flights over restricted areas.
As these regulations come into effect, the focus will now shift towards implementation and enforcement across the aviation sector.
The Maldivian environment is quite unique, where 99% of the total geographic area is the ocean. This requires continuous seaplane operations, which serve over 90 floating platforms scattered over the country. Seaplanes operate under VFR conditions, and it is therefore extremely challenging to set up boundaries for recreational drone operations.
Full details of requirements and necessary applications can be found by following the details in the comments.
