Maldives to require drone licences from 2023

The transport ministry has decided to make it mandatory for drone operators to take special permission from next year.

In April, a drone was used to capture scenes near a TMA seaplane in flight. It was only after the issue that the transport started considering issuing licences to drone operators and making it mandatory for drones to be registered.

Transport and Civil Aviation Minister Aishath Nahula announced the decision to issue special permits for drone operations from next year on the occasion of International Civil Aviation Day.

She said efforts are being made to create opportunities for various activities in the country. She added that arrangements are now being made to allow drone operators to be licensed.

"By the end of this year, arrangements will be made to allow drones to operate. Therefore, we will start issuing permits next year to provide various services through drones in the country," Nahula said.

Drones are prohibited from all areas in the Male region except Rasfannu beach area. In June 2016, drones were banned from flying without permission in the capital region as operating such materials near congested islands and airports could lead to a fatal incident.