1. 🚦 The Short Answer
Recreational drones are generally allowed for foreign tourists in Papua New Guinea, but they are strictly regulated by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority of Papua New Guinea (CASA PNG). You must obtain authorization to fly, register your drone before taking to the skies, and strictly adhere to their basic flight rules.
2. 🛃 Customs & Importation Rules
- Legality at Customs: Tourists can legally bring recreational drones into Papua New Guinea through airport customs.
- Declarations: While there is no separate drone-specific customs form, you should declare it as an electronic device. It is highly recommended to have your CASA PNG flight authorization printed out and ready to present.
- Confiscation Risks: Drones are rarely confiscated at the border if they are standard consumer sizes (like a DJI Mini or Mavic). However, bringing large drones or lacking documentation that explains your recreational intent could cause customs delays.
3. 📝 Registration & Permit Process for Tourists
- Pre-Arrival Requirements: Foreign tourists must register their drone and obtain a UAS/RPAS Activity Authorisation Permit from CASA PNG before arriving.
- The Process: Papua New Guinea does not currently have an automated online drone portal. You must contact CASA PNG directly via email (the Flying Operations department is generally reached at mnawai@casapng.gov.pg or via their official website). You will need to provide your drone specifications (make, model, weight) and your intended flight itinerary.
- Fees & Timelines: Approvals are handled on a case-by-case basis. Because communication is manual, tourists should initiate this process at least 4 to 6 weeks before their trip to avoid missing out on approval.
4. 🚫 Key Flight Rules & Restrictions
- Standard Rules: You must fly during daylight hours, in clear weather with good visibility, and keep the drone within your unaided Visual Line of Sight at all times. The maximum permitted altitude is 120 meters (400 feet) above ground level.
- Weight Restrictions: Standard recreational rules (Part 101) apply to drones weighing under 10 kg. If your drone weighs between 10 kg and 25 kg, you need special approval from the Director of Civil Aviation.
- No-Fly Zones: You are strictly prohibited from flying within 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) of any airport, airfield, or helicopter landing base. Flying over people without consent, congested urban areas, and military or restricted airspace is completely forbidden.
5. 🔗 Official Sources & Links
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, or to begin your authorization process, please verify with the official authorities:
Disclaimer: Aviation laws and customs policies change frequently worldwide. Travelers should always double-check with official government sources or local embassies just before their trip to ensure full legal compliance.
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