Drone Laws in Namibia

Verfasst von Francis Markert | Last update on 21.07.2025 | 8 Kommentare

In this article, we explain which drone laws apply in Namibia and what hurdles you need to overcome to legally fly a multicopter in the country.

In Namibia, all drones now have to be registered. There are different requirements depending on whether the drone is used privately or commercially. Below you’ll find out how to register a drone in Namibia. But first, I want to give you an overview of the current rules in Namibia.

Overview: Drone rules in Namibia

Registering a Drone in Namibia

All documents for Namibia can be downloaded here.

Private users must apply for an RPAS Letter of Approval (RLA). Foreigners must submit this application at least 60 days in advance and include the following information:

• A formal application letter to the Executive Director of the Namibia Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) stating that you intend to fly your drone for private purposes and specifying the time frame.
• A map of the intended flight areas and coordinates of the takeoff location – this can be created with Google Earth (the application is free to download).
• Risk analysis and a “Safety Management Plan” (2.a FSS-OPS-FORM-612-01 Rev 3) – if you don’t have a specific item, you can write “Not Applicable” in that field.
• Technical specifications of your drone in English – usually found in the manufacturer’s user manual.
• Proof of a drone insurance policy that covers third-party damages in Namibia – it is mandatory to state that the insurance is valid during your travel period.
• Proof of payment for the processing fee, currently 300 NAD (approx. €15).
• Copy of your passport.

As you can see, obtaining official approval from the NCAA can be quite involved. When I first submitted the documents to the NCAA, I received feedback the very next day with hints on any errors. So if you start the application process early and go through the documents step by step, you should be able to obtain your permit without problems.

It gets even more complicated for commercial drone pilots. They need to apply for an Operator Certificate (ROC). Foreign pilots should expect a processing time of at least 120 days. The following documents must be submitted with the application:

• A formal application letter to the Executive Director of the Namibia Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), including detailed information about the purpose and duration of the drone operations.
• An air traffic license. Alternatively, you could submit a German drone license (Kenntnisnachweis).
• Proof of registration of all drones.
• RLA for each individual drone.
• Operations Manual according to NCAA requirements.
• Proof of payment for the processing fee, currently 4,500 NAD (approx. €308).

Each drone may only be registered under one ROC. This means that each commercial drone can only be assigned to a single pilot.

In addition, you probably want to use your drone to take pictures or videos. If you’re only filming or photographing as a tourist in Namibia, you’ll face fewer restrictions. All other photographers and filmmakers need a permit and a temporary work visa. The Namibia Film Commission is responsible for issuing permits. Flights in national parks also require approval from the Ministry of Environment and Tourism.

Drone Flights in Namibian National Parks

For many travelers, flying a drone in national parks is an exciting idea. However, drones are also used by poachers and can disturb wildlife. Lawmakers had good reasons to ban drones in national parks. This ban applies within a 9.3 km (5 nautical mile) radius around protected areas.

If you still want to fly in a national park or reserve, you’ll need approval from the NCAA and permission from the relevant conservation authority. If you can’t present this approval and are caught by a ranger, you may face fines.

Other Regulations in Namibia

Regardless of the NCAA’s approvals, you must obtain written consent from landowners (individuals, authorities, organizations) before each flight. This requirement applies to both private and commercial drone operators. All permits must be carried during flights.

Drones in Namibia may only be flown during daylight and within direct line of sight. Flying over crowds of people is prohibited.

You must also observe several safety distances. For example, a 9.3 km (five nautical miles) distance must be kept from the outer boundaries of airfields in Namibia. A minimum distance of 50 meters must be maintained from uninvolved people, objects (e.g., vehicles, buildings), and roads. Public roads may not be used as takeoff or landing sites.

The drone rules for Namibia listed here have been researched to the best of our knowledge. However, we cannot guarantee their accuracy. If you want to be on the safe side, contact the Namibian Civil Aviation Authority. Alternatively, you can contact the Namibian embassy in your home country for further information on regulations. Please leave us a comment if you have updates or if you’ve had your own experiences flying a drone in Namibia!