1. 🚦 The Short Answer
Recreational drones are legally allowed for tourists in Georgia, provided you follow general airspace rules and register your drone online if it weighs over 250g or is equipped with a camera.
2. 🛃 Customs & Importation Rules
- Bringing your drone: Tourists can legally bring consumer drones into Georgia through airport customs without issue.
- Declarations: There are no special customs declarations required for standard recreational drones upon arrival.
- Border confiscation: Your drone will not be confiscated at the border for lacking flight paperwork, as flight registration is handled separately by aviation authorities, not customs. However, ensure you follow standard airline safety rules regarding lithium batteries (pack them securely in your carry-on luggage).
3. 📝 Registration & Permit Process for Tourists
- Pre-arrival registration: It is highly recommended to complete your registration online before arriving. Georgia has recently harmonized its drone laws with European (EASA) standards.
- The Process: You must visit the Georgian Civil Aviation Agency (GCAA) drone portal, register yourself to obtain an Operator ID, and physically label your drone with this unique code before flying. If your drone weighs over 250g, you are also required to pass a basic online A1/A3 category safety test.
- Fees & Timeframe: Operator registration involves a minimal administrative fee (or is free depending on the subcategory), and online portal approvals are generally processed very quickly.
4. 🚫 Key Flight Rules & Restrictions
- General Rules: You must maintain Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) with your drone at all times. The maximum permitted flight altitude is 120 meters (400 feet) above ground level.
- Sub-250g Drones (e.g., DJI Mini): Drones weighing under 250g face the most relaxed rules and do not require heavy pilot licensing. However, because they are equipped with cameras capable of capturing personal data, you must still register for an Operator ID and respect privacy laws.
- No-Fly Zones: Do not fly within 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) of airports or airfields. Flights are strictly prohibited over crowds, busy urban streets, border zones, military installations, and government buildings. You must also arrange special permits to fly in protected natural reserves and historical heritage sites.
5. 🔗 Official Sources & Links
To view official airspace maps, register your drone, or contact aviation authorities directly, please use the links below:
Disclaimer: Aviation and drone laws change frequently. Travelers should always double-check current rules and official airspace maps via local authorities immediately before their trip to ensure full compliance.
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