20/03/2026
Hello Everyone,
Recently DGCA has issued Standard Operating Procedures for Drone operations. Highlights of the SOP are:
Drone users must follow these basic safety guidelines:
1. Only DGCA-certified Remote Pilots are allowed to operate drones, except Nano
and Micro drones used for non-commercial purposes.
2. Always operate drones strictly in accordance with Drone Rules, 2021, DGCA advisories, and training circulars.
3. Check the airspace classification (Green / Yellow / Red Zone) on the Digital Sky Platform before flying.
4. Obtain necessary permissions before flying in Yellow or Red Zones. Yellow zone: [email protected] and Red zone: [email protected]
5. Maintain a safe distance from people, buildings, vehicles, and animals.
6. Conduct a pre-flight inspection to ensure the drone is in good working condition.
7. Avoid flying in bad weather, strong winds, rain, or poor visibility.
8. Respect privacy, do not capture images or videos of individuals or private property without consent.
9. Never fly near airports, military installations, government buildings, or sensitive locations without authorization.
10. Unauthorized, unsafe, or illegal drone usage may lead to:
* Penalties under Rule 50 of Drone Rules, 2021
* Seizure of the drone and associated equipment
* Suspension or cancellation of Remote Pilot Certificate or permissions under Rule 53
* Registration of FIR and legal action under applicable laws
* Restriction or permanent ban on future drone operations
Common violations observed during drone usage:
1. Use of non-type certified or unregistered drones
* Use of illegally imported or foreign-manufactured drones
* Using drones registered for recreational or R&D purposes for commercial activities
* Operating drones of a higher weight/category than permitted under the pilot’s certificate
* Conducting unauthorized BVLOS operations
* Flying in Red or Yellow Zones without permission
* Conducting R&D flights outside approved or controlled areas
* Operating drones without third-party insurance
