Drone regulations in Bhutan
Verfasst von Francis Markert | Last update on 03.07.2025 | 8 Kommentare
Here we explain the rules for flying drones in Bhutan.
To make a long story short: In Bhutan, you have no chance of using your drone. However, if you’re still interested in the topic, you’ll find all the details below.
Drone regulations in Bhutan are among the most restrictive in the world. Since 2017, drone flights have been reserved exclusively for government organizations. For travelers and private individuals, operating a drone is strictly prohibited.
Not only tourists face penalties (equivalent to around 230 to 600 USD), but tour guides are also punished if someone in their group uses a drone. Additionally, you should be aware that drones will be confiscated if discovered.
Overview: Drone rules in Bhutan
Drone labels can be ordered here
Additional Information for Drone Pilots in Bhutan
There is theoretically a way to obtain permission from the Bhutan Civil Aviation Authority (BCAA) at Paro International Airport. However, this operating permit is only granted to government organizations. This means legal drone use is not possible for travelers.
For those who do receive permission, the following rules, among others, apply:
- In general, drone operations are only allowed within visual line of sight.
- Your drone must not weigh more than 6 kilograms and must not fly higher than 90 meters (300 feet) above ground or water surface.
- You must always maintain a distance of 5 kilometers (3 miles) from airports.
There is also a special rule in Bhutan: you are not allowed to fly over yellow roofs (religious buildings).
We have researched the drone regulations for Bhutan to the best of our knowledge. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information. To be on the safe side, please contact the Bhutan Civil Aviation Authority. Alternatively, you can also inquire at the Bhutanese embassy in your country for further information about the regulations. Please leave us a comment if you learn anything new or have your own experience flying a drone in Bhutan!
Hey, the info is not correct. While the rules and regulation don’t state it openly, BCAA will not allow tourists to operate drones in Bhutan. Permits are only issued for government agencies, contractors and farm/forest land owners (for monitoring purposes). We investigated directly with BCAA on July 2017. See details here https://www.firefoxtours.com/blog/can-you-operate-drone-bhutan
Hi Michal, thank you for the update! It’s a pity.
According to the flowing document (update Sept 2017) it looks like you have to be a citizen of Bhutan in order to operate a drone in the country.
http://www.bcaa.gov.bt/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/UAS-Regulations.pdf
Just back from Bhutan. Delighted drones effectively not allowed. Bhutan is dedicated to conservation and protection of its heritage. Here on the coast of Ireland we are plagued by drones in seabird colonies in the breeding season and at our many beauty spots.
Thank you for keeping us updated!
Hello sir and Madam can i register for drone in Bhutan…just for YouTube vlogs
Hi
any issue to bring in my mini 3 pro into Bhutan?I know all drone are not allowed totally however my trip is start fr Bhutan and ended in Northern India.
many thanks
Hello sir/madam can i register for drone in Bhutan for YouTube vlogging.