🖐 In this blog post we’ll share all drone law links & known rules around recreational & commercial drone uses in Afghanistan (Kabul). Give a 👍 at the end of this post if you enjoyed it & feel free to ask any questions or share your experience in The Forum. Keep in mind that the content below is updated to the best of our ability & does not replace official sources & your own research.
Recreational vs commercial drone use in Afghanistan
Afghanistan does not differentiate commercial & recreational drone uses. However, both are subject to restrictions & a code of conduct. Additionally, depending on your drone's weight , different rules will apply.
✅ In Afghanistan, the regulation and control of drone use falls under the Civil Aviation Authority (ACAA) & they can be contacted anytime via:
Email: info@acaa.gov.af
Phone: (+93) 20 231 2819
Can I bring my drone to Afghanistan?
🚨 Currently you can bring a drone in Afghanistan (Kabul) as long as your import is considered as legitimate (generally one drone per person) and that you have applied for a permit prior landing in the country.
🚨 Be aware of the airline you purchase to travel as some main ones will only accept your drone on-board if its batteries are detached & placed in a firecase during travel time. Most airlines will have a battery voltage limit based on the recommendation of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). You can find more info about a specific airline here.
Where can I fly my drone in Afghanistan?
✅ We did not find an official fly zone map for drones in Afghanistan "If you have more information about this, please let us on the Forum know anytime". Thankfully, app.airmap.io has listed all flight zones in a convenient way organised in a 3 colour legend:
Afghanistan Drone Fly Map
🦅 National parks & reserves are on a case by case permission & you might need to check directly with the local park or reserve authorities.
🌊 Do not fly above waterways and lakes of Afghanistan
Recreational & commercial drone use in Afghanistan
🚨 Before flying your drone in Afghanistan, you will need to ask for a permit. For some commercial flights, Afghan authorities might ask you to hire a local Afghan drone pilot which we will explain how a little further below. In every you will still need to follow the common rules specified by the Civil Aviation of Afghanistan which ask you to fly:
within its territory, stay away from borders as no international flights are allowed.
with a third party insurance covering all risks (this is compulsory).
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How to apply for a permit to fly my drone in Afghanistan?
✅ Good news first, as it is possible. You will need to complete a long and detailed 4 pages application form which we've grouped together here (sorry in advance as you will need to download each page separately). To complete it, you will need:
your full personal details
the name of the pilot (if different)
your flights' purpose, time and location
a full description of your drone (providing photos will help)
your insurance policy details
your emergency plan and contact details
You will also need a copy of all these documents in English or translated in English:
Proof of ownership (if applicable)
Certificate of registration and of airworthiness
Insurance certificate
RPAS operator certificate (certified true copy)
Remote pilot(s) licence
An English Language Proficiency to at least ICAO Level 4
A medical certificate(s)
Aircraft radio station licence (if applicable)
Noise certification document
Operator security programme
Proposed flight plan
Once completed, you can return it to info@acaa.gov.af
🕐 Note that all permit requests should be lodged at least 90 days prior your flight day.
Do I need a local drone pilot for drone commercial use in Afghanistan?
🚨 For some commercial drone operations or more sensible zones, you might be required to hire an Afghan local certified drone pilot. Afghanistan's Civil Aviation Authority has prepared this form to complete with all details to complete at least 90 days prior the flight schedule.
💡 If you're looking for an Afghan drone operator, feel free to post your job offer in our Job Centre. Alternatively, you can check if a member register him/herself on our business map.
What do I risk for flying a drone illegally in Afghanistan?
The amount & scope of the fine will depend on the nature & severity of your infraction. The judges will also evaluate if you intentionally committed the infraction and/or if you had any commercial purposes to do such.
✅ Once you got everything in order, you can start flying above Afghanistan's awesome landscapes & create videos like this one:
✅ Please leave a comment or update the Forum when you receive news and/or gain experience with your drone in Afghanistan! Have fun & safe flight!
Disclaimer: Although great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information researched, we take no responsibility for any loss, harm or damage caused as a direct or indirect consequence of relying on this information. It is your responsibility to seek advice from qualified local & relevant authorities for needed information about local drone regulations.
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