RPAS / Drones

A drone may feel like a toy, but in Fiji it is treated as an aerial device and is regulated under the Fiji Air Navigation Regulations. These rules exist to protect people, property, wildlife, and other airspace users.

Why Drone Rules Matter?

Drone regulations help to:

• • keep Fiji’s airspace safe for aircraft and drone users
  • protect the public, property, and sensitive sites
  • reduce the risk of incidents, enforcement action, or delays to your activity (especially for filming or commercial work)

Do I Need Approval from CAAF?

Recreational use (personal enjoyment)

If you are flying for personal interest (e.g., taking photos for your own use), this is recreational. For recreational drone operations, you must register your drone using OP 137 (online).

Commercial use (hire or reward)

If you are flying for business purposes (e.g., paid photography/filming, advertising, surveying, agriculture work), this is commercial and requires written authorisation from CAAF using OP 138 (submit with required supporting documents).

The following RPAS Video is published by the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji

Core Operating Limits (Know Before You Fly)

Distance and Height Limits

Unless specifically approved by CAAF:

• Do not operate within 3 km of a domestic aerodrome or within 5 km of an international aerodrome.
• Do not fly above 200 feet (about 61 metres) AGL.

Keep the drone in sight

• Maintain visual line of sight at all times (unless you have specific approval).

Where you Should Not Fly

Avoid operating over, to, around, or at:

• Airports, helicopter and water landing sites and airstrips
• Government and sensitive sites such as police stations, military barracks/bases, prisons, hospitals, Parliament/Government House
• National parks, conservation areas, and public gatherings / sporting events / populous areas

If you are unsure whether an area is restricted, contact CAAF to confirm any local no-fly zones or conditions.

Drone Size and Additional Requirements

CAAF groups RPAS by weight (very small, small, medium, large).

As a practical guide:

• Under 2 kg: keep at least 30 m away from people, vehicles and buildings.
• 2 kg and above: stricter requirements apply, and commercial operations may require additional competency evidence (e.g., remote pilot licence/evidence).

Applying to Fly a Drone in Fiji

Recreational permit/registration (OP 137)

• Complete OP 137 (online) before you fly.

Commercial authorisation (OP 138)

• Download OP 138, complete it, and email it with supporting documents to drones@caaf.org.fj.
• Supporting documentation generally includes RPAS training certification and liability/third-party insurance (and may include additional requirements depending on drone weight and operation type).
• Fees apply (from $365.63).

Fly Safe Tips

• Check weather conditions before and during your flight.
• Inspect your drone before each flight.
• Keep your CAAF permit/authorisation available (digital or hard copy) while flying.
• Plan your flight to avoid restricted areas and crowds.
• Land immediately if manned aircraft are nearby.
• If flying at a resort/hotel or on private property, obtain permission from management/owners first.