đ In this blog post weâll share all law links & known rules about recreational & commercial drone use in Fiji (Nadi). Give a đ at the end of this post if you enjoyed it & feel free to ask any questions or share your experience in the Fiji Drone 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 Fiji
Fiji differentiates commercial and recreational drone uses. Both are subject to restrictions and code of conduct. Additionally, depending on the weight of your drone, different rules will apply.
â In Fiji, drone laws falls under the Fijian Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji (CAAF), & they can be contacted anytime via:
Email: info@caaf.org.fj
Phone: (+679) 892 3155
Mail: Private Mail Bag, Nap 0354, Nadi Airport, Fiji
đ¨ Good to know; the Fiji law prohibits flying a drone with a blood alcohol content of 0.08 per cent or higher, the same as for driving a vehicle, or while drugged. Violators faced up to six months in jail, a $1000 fine or both - "now we know"
Can I bring my drone to Fiji?
â Currently, there doesn't seem to be any restrictions on bringing drones within Fiji (Nadi & Suva) as long as your import is considered as legitimate (generally one drone per person). You will however need to register your drone upon arrival.
đ¨ 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.
đĄ Smart! Get your drone batteries' firecase today and make sure you're complying with aviation safety rules.
Where can I fly my drone in Fiji?
â We did not find an official fly zone map for drones in Fiji "If you have more information about this, please share it in the Fiji Drone Forum". Thankfully in the meantime, app.airmap.io has listed all flight zones in a convenient way organised in a colour legend.
Fiji Drone Fly Map
đŚ National parks might be protected flight areas in Fiji and you might need to seek specific permission prior taking off in these places.
đĄ Smart! Pack some spare drone batteries, you never know how close is the next power plug overseas. Also make sure you have a travel adaptor for Fiji.
Recreational Drone use in Fiji
You will need a permission for drone recreational use in Fiji. To obtain it, you must complete this form which will ask you basic questions about your stay and remind you the above do and don't points.
Additionally, you must fly:
at a maximum altitude of 61 m above the ground.
away from people or large crowds & respect individuals' privacy.
at least 3 km away from domestic airports (any airport, seaplane base or area where aircraft take off and land) or 5km from Nadi & Suva International Airports.
away from areas where its use could interfere with police or first responders.
during the day, not in clouds & within your sight at all times.
only if clearly marked with your name, address and telephone number.
do not fly your drone in sensitive areas including government or military facilities. Use of drones or camera drones in these areas are prohibited .
avoid to operate drones at resorts without prior permission ahead.
â There are no fees for recreational drone permits.
Commercial Drone use in Fiji
You will need a permission for drone commercial use in Fiji. To obtain it, you must complete this form which will ask you basic questions about yourself and your stay. But also several questions about your flying experience and qualifications so be prepared and have them with you.
Additionally, you must:
respect all the drone recreational use's code of conduct (listed above).
follow the rules in the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji (CAAF) - see here.
know the weight of your drone as Fiji identifies 3 drone weight classes (<20kg = lightweight / 20kg<150kg = medium weight / 150kg+ = heavyweight.
đ¨ There is an undisclosed fee mention in the form - "we're trying to get this info for you"
â The permit process in either case is set to be done quite quickly and more importantly in a very friendly and professional manner "Really nice, professional and friendly service" - derryaero on Mavic Pilots forum
What do I risk for flying a drone illegally in Fiji?
đ¨ 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 &/or if you had any commercial purpose during your flight.
Once you got everything in order, you can start flying above Fiji's awesome landscapes and create videos like this one
â Please leave a comment when you receive news and/or gain experience with your drone in Fiji! Have fun and safe flight! #fiji #fijiean #regulation #law #laws #legislation
đĄ You're a local, have a question or want to share a travel experience? Head to our Fiji Drone Forum
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 rules and regulations.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links meaning we will get a commission if you decide to purchase via them. This has no costs for you but helps Dronemade stay free for all. If you need to buy anything on Banggood or DJI stores, think of us.
Source
Other resources
Mavic Pilots Forum - "Taking drone to fiji"
CAAF contact: info@caaf.org.fj
đ°Drone Law Passed - The Fiji Times