Fiji’s Drone Laws 2025 – What Every Pilot Needs to Know Before You Fly

Key Facts

• Permits Required: Both recreational and commercial drone flights in Fiji require prior authorization from the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji (CAAF). Hobbyists must obtain a free recreational permit (using CAAF’s Form OP 137) before flying, while businesses need a commercial operator’s permit (Form OP 138) ^{[1] [2]}. Flying without a permit violates Fiji’s Air Navigation Regulations ^[3].
• Registration & Fees: All drones over 250 g must be registered with CAAF’s online system, which issues a registration number that must be labeled on the aircraft ^[4]. Recreational permit applications are free if applied directly (third-party agents may charge ~$50), whereas commercial permits carry a fee (amount set by CAAF) ^{[5] [6]}.
• Licensing & Training:No pilot license is required for recreational drone use ^[7], but operators must follow CAAF’s rules. Commercial operators however must undergo formal training – e.g. obtaining a Remote Pilot License (RePL) or equivalent certification – especially for heavier drones ^{[8] [9]}. Drones over 7 kg used commercially demand additional certification: the pilot must hold a manned aircraft pilot’s license and even an instrument rating for the largest class of drones ^{[10] [11]}.
• Operating Limits: Fiji imposes strict no-fly zones and altitude limits. Drones may not operate within 3 km of any domestic airport or 5 km of an international airport ^[12]. Maximum altitude is 200 feet (≈61 m) above ground ^[13]. Flights must remain within visual line-of-sight of the operator at all times, and night flying is prohibited without special approval ^{[14] [15]}.
• No-Fly Areas: It is illegal to fly over or near sensitive areas and crowds. CAAF expressly forbids drone flights over airstrips, heliports, fuel depots, moving vehicles, densely populated areas, or private property without permission ^[16]. Drones must also avoid government buildings, prisons, hospitals, police or military facilities, and Parliament grounds ^[17]. Even at resorts and hotels, you cannot fly without management consent to protect privacy ^[18]. Additionally, drones are banned from controlled airspace (e.g. around Nadi and Suva airports) unless you have prior written clearance from air traffic authorities ^{[19] [20]}.
• Insurance:Liability insurance is mandatory for commercial drone operations in Fiji ^[21]. Commercial permit applicants must show proof of third-party liability insurance covering drone activities ^{[22] [23]}. For recreational fliers, insurance is not legally required but is strongly recommended ^[24] to cover any potential damage or injury.
• Penalties for Violations: Failure to comply with Fiji’s drone laws can lead to severe penalties. Flying a drone without CAAF authorization or breaching permit conditions is a criminal offense ^[25]. Offenders risk hefty fines and even imprisonment (up to six months in jail) if convicted ^[26]. CAAF may also suspend or revoke your drone permit or seize equipment for serious infractions.
• Recent Updates: As of 2025, Fiji has modernized its drone compliance process with a new online application portal for permits, enabling quicker approvals (some hobbyists report near-instant permits via the website) ^[27]. The government is also reviewing and updating legislation – Fiji’s Parliament has called for new drone laws to address regulatory gaps and security concerns in light of rising drone use ^[28]. All pilots should stay updated on rule changes, as CAAF periodically issues revised guidelines (e.g. Aeronautical Circulars) to integrate drones safely into Fijian airspace ^{[29] [30]}.

Legal Framework and Authority

Fiji regulates drones as aircraft under its civil aviation laws. The Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji (CAAF) is the national regulator responsible for drone safety oversight ^[31]. Under Fiji’s Air Navigation Regulations, operation of any “pilotless aircraft” (drone) is illegal without CAAF’s written authorization ^[32]. This legal requirement comes from Regulation 82, which mandates that no unmanned aircraft may fly unless an authorisation is issued and all specified conditions are met ^[33]. In practice, this means every drone flight – recreational or commercial – must be approved by CAAF in advance.

The broad definition of “aircraft” and “aerial devices” in Fijian law covers common drones. Regulation 78 of the Air Navigation Regulations explicitly prohibits flying any model aircraft, drone, kite, balloon, etc., within 3 km of a domestic aerodrome or 5 km of an international aerodrome, or above 200 feet without special permission ^[34]. It also bans any drone operations that could endanger manned aircraft (“impinging on safe operations”) ^[35]. These core rules apply to everyone, and CAAF enforces them strictly in the interest of aviation safety.

CAAF has issued detailed standards and guidance for Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS). For example, Aeronautical Information Circular AIC 14/22 (effective May 2022) outlines operational limitations and the requirement for CAAF authorisation for all drone flights ^{[36] [37]}. These standards are periodically updated (replacing older circulars like AIC 08/19) to keep pace with drone technology. Pilots are expected to know and follow the latest rules published by CAAF.

Importantly, Fiji’s drone regulations do not exempt small drones outright. Even lightweight hobby drones (e.g. the sub-250 g DJI Mini) are subject to the rules on how, where, and when you can fly ^[38]. The only concession is that drones under 250 grams need not be formally registered in the CAAF database, but all other restrictions still apply ^[39]. In essence, Fiji treats all drones as aircraft operations that must be conducted responsibly and under oversight – there is no “toy drone” exception for safety or privacy violations.

The primary authority overseeing and granting drone permits is CAAF’s Ground Safety Department (which handles RPAS). CAAF’s contact information (email: info@caaf.org.fj / drones@caaf.org.fj, phone: +679 672 1555) is available for pilots who have questions or need clarification ^[40]. It’s advisable to contact CAAF ahead of time if you are unsure about any planned drone activity, especially as regulations can evolve. The Ministry of Civil Aviation (within the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation) provides government oversight, but day-to-day enforcement and permitting is handled by CAAF.

Recreational Drone Use Requirements

Recreational drone pilots (flying for personal interest, hobby, or tourism) in Fiji must follow a clear set of rules. First and foremost, a permit is required for any recreational flight in public. The permit serves as CAAF’s authorisation under Regulation 82, effectively granting you legal permission to fly under certain conditions.

• Permit Application (Form OP 137): To fly recreationally, you must apply for a permit using CAAF Form OP 137 (titled “Issue of RPAS Declaration and Permit for Recreational Use Only”) ^[41]. This form captures your personal details, drone information (make, model, serial number), and the purpose/area of flights. As of 2025, the application can be done online via the CAAF website, which significantly speeds up processing ^[42]. You can also download the form and email it to drones@caaf.org.fj if needed ^[43].
• No Fee for Hobbyists: CAAF does not charge a fee for recreational drone permits when you apply directly ^[44]. Once approved, CAAF will issue you a written authorisation (permit document). You are required to carry this permit (or have it on hand) whenever flying, as proof of legality ^[45]. (Note: Some private companies offer to handle the paperwork for a fee (≈USD $50) ^[46], but this is optional – most hobbyists can easily apply themselves at no cost.)
• Age and Identity: There’s no specific age limit mentioned in the public regulations for hobby pilots, but if the applicant is under 18, a parent/guardian should witness the permit form ^[47]. You will need to provide a copy of your ID or passport for the permit. Tourists should also indicate their travel details (e.g. duration of stay, accommodation) on the form ^[48].
• No License Needed (Knowledge Required): Recreational fliers are not required to hold a pilot’s license or certificate ^[49]. Fiji does not have an exam like the U.S. TRUST or a formal theory test for hobby pilots at this time. However, CAAF expects you to know the rules and abide by all restrictions on your permit ^[50]. Essentially, while there’s no exam, you must educate yourself on Fiji’s drone code (which is provided in the permit documentation and CAAF’s website FAQs).
• Operating Conditions: The recreational permit typically comes with standard conditions printed on it, which reflect Fiji’s drone laws. Some key conditions for hobby pilots include: daytime flying only, clear weather only; always keep Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) with your drone; max altitude 200 feet AGL; and strict avoidance of the no-fly zones listed by CAAF (more on those below) ^[51]. You must also yield right-of-way to any manned aircraft – if you see helicopters or planes, get out of their way immediately.
• Where You Can Fly: Generally, recreational drones in Fiji should be flown in safe, open areas away from people and airports. Beaches, open fields, and private land (with owner permission) are examples of suitable locations. Urban and resort areas are tricky – many resorts ban unapproved drones to protect guest privacy ^[52], and Fiji’s cities (Suva, Nadi) fall under controlled airport airspace where casual hobby flights are usually not allowed ^[53]. CAAF may stipulate specific sites or times when approving your permit (for example, they might allow you to fly at a certain beach early in the morning when it’s empty). Always adhere to any location or time limitations stated in your permit.
• Drone Registration: If your drone is over 250 grams, you are required to register it with CAAF in addition to getting the permit ^[54]. The registration process for hobbyists is typically part of the permit application – on the OP 137 form (or online portal), you’ll provide the drone’s make, model, and serial number, which enters it into CAAF’s registry. CAAF will issue a registration number (or use the drone’s serial) and you should label your drone with this identification number before flying ^[55]. Drones under 250 g (like some mini models) currently do not mandate registration, but CAAF still encourages labeling them and notes that all other rules apply regardless of weight ^[56].
• Insurance for Hobby Flights: Fiji’s law does not compel recreational pilots to have insurance. However, you remain liable for any damage your drone might cause. Given the unpredictable nature of flying, it’s recommended to have personal liability insurance or a specific drone insurance policy even as a hobbyist ^[57]. This could protect you financially if, for example, your drone injures someone or damages property. Some travel insurance packages include drone liability coverage – tourists should verify this or consider buying a short-term drone insurance policy for the trip.

By fulfilling these requirements, recreational pilots can enjoy flying in Fiji’s beautiful locales legally. Always keep a copy of your permit and ID with you when flying – authorities (or even resort security and police) may ask to see your CAAF authorisation. If you cannot produce it, you risk confiscation of the drone or fines. Fortunately, many travelers report the permit process is straightforward: CAAF often responds to hobbyist applications within a few days (or even faster via the new online form) ^[58]. Plan ahead and secure your permit before traveling or before your first flight in Fiji to stay compliant.

Commercial Drone Operations Requirements

Operating a drone commercially in Fiji (i.e. for profit, business purposes, or any flight not purely for personal enjoyment) involves a higher bar of compliance. In addition to the general flight rules, commercial UAV operators must meet certification, insurance, and procedural standards to ensure safety and accountability.

• Commercial Permit (Authorisation) – Form OP 138: Anyone intending to use a drone for commercial projects in Fiji – such as aerial photography/videography services, surveys, inspections, or any paid work – must apply for a Commercial RPAS Operator Authorisation from CAAF. This is done by submitting Form OP 138 “Application for Authorisation to Operate RPAS in Fiji” ^[59]. Like the recreational form, OP 138 asks for details of the operator (or company), drone specifications, the nature of operations, and safety procedures. You should email the completed form to drones@caaf.org.fj, and pay the required fee. (CAAF’s fee for commercial drone permits isn’t publicly listed; it may depend on the complexity of the operation, but expect a fee and possibly an annual renewal cost ^[60].)
• Operator Certification: Fiji effectively treats commercial drone operations similar to an aviation activity requiring licensed personnel. While Fiji doesn’t yet issue its own Remote Pilot Licenses to individuals, it requires pilots to have appropriate credentials. For small drones (very small/small category, up to 7 kg), CAAF expects the operator to have at least a “Basic Drone Training” certification (sub-2kg course) or equivalent from an approved training provider ^{[61] [62]}. In practice, many commercial operators in Fiji train in overseas programs (or through local CAAF-recognized instructors) to get a certificate of competency. If you are undergoing training and not fully certified yet, you must operate under the supervision of a certified company/instructor until qualified ^[63].
• For medium drones (7–25 kg), a higher level of qualification is needed. The pilot should hold a Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) or an equivalent aviation qualification ^[64]. Essentially, flying heavier drones is treated akin to piloting an aircraft – you need formal licensure or substantial training, and must follow any conditions attached to that license (for example, limitations on operating conditions or craft type).
• For large drones (>25 kg), Fiji’s rules are even stricter. Only a RePL holder who also holds a current Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) rating is allowed to operate large UAVs in Fiji’s airspace ^[65]. This implies the operator must have advanced aviation skills (like a manned aircraft pilot with instrument training). While large drones are rare in typical commercial use (these could be heavy industrial or military-grade UAVs), the regulation is clear that an aviation-qualified crew is needed to fly them.
• Operational Authorisation & Manuals: Unlike a hobbyist permit which might be a simple certificate, a commercial authorisation is more involved. CAAF will typically require a form of Operations Manual or Safety Management Plan from the operator ^[66]. Commercial applicants should be prepared to submit documentation such as: operating procedures, risk assessments, maintenance schedules for the drone, and pilot qualification proofs. In fact, for drones above 7 kg, CAAF specifically asks for a maintenance inspection program, operation manuals, and evidence of proper maintenance personnel ^{[67] [68]}. These requirements mirror what an aviation regulator would ask of a small airline or charter operation – underscoring that CAAF treats commercial drone ops very seriously.
• Insurance (Mandatory): All commercial drone operators must carry third-party liability insurance that covers their drone operations ^[69]. Proof of a valid insurance policy (from a reputable insurer experienced with UAV risks) must be submitted with the OP 138 application ^[70]. This insurance is crucial to cover any potential damage to property or injury to people caused by the drone during commercial missions. Without insurance, CAAF will not approve the operation – it’s a firm requirement. The amount of coverage needed may depend on the operation’s risk; many businesses carry substantial coverage given the potential liabilities.
• Additional Rules for Heavy Drones: If your drone weighs more than 7 kg (excluding payload) for a commercial mission, you are subject to “additional regulations” as noted by CAAF ^[71]. Practically, this means: (1) The pilot must have a traditional manned aircraft pilot license (at least a Private Pilot License, often a requirement to demonstrate general airmanship) ^[72]. (2) You might be restricted to certain areas or altitudes even below the normal limits. (3) CAAF may impose stringent conditions like requiring an observer or NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen) to be issued during your operations. The operator may also need to demonstrate the airworthiness of such a heavy drone – possibly via a flight test witnessed by CAAF inspectors or documentation of the drone’s certification standards ^[73]. In short, drones above 7 kg are treated almost like small airplanes under Fiji’s rules.
• Timeline and Compliance: Obtaining a commercial drone authorisation can take some time. CAAF advises to apply well in advance of your planned operations ^{[74] [75]}. Simple jobs might get approved in a week or two, but more complex operations (or incomplete applications) can take several weeks to process. Once issued, the authorisation will specify the validity period (often 12 months for a permit) ^[76]. Commercial operators need to ensure they renew their permit on time and report to CAAF if they change any aspect of the operation (such as using a new model of drone or hiring new pilots).
• Foreign Operators: If you’re a foreign company or pilot looking to do commercial drone work in Fiji (for example, filming a movie or surveying for a project), the same rules apply. You’ll still need to go through CAAF’s authorisation. It’s wise to partner with a local Fijian UAV operator or consultant who knows the process. CAAF may require foreign operators to demonstrate that they meet an “equivalent standard” – e.g. show your home country’s drone license, and comply with Fiji’s insurance and safety plan requirements. Early communication with CAAF is key in such cases.

By fulfilling these conditions, commercial drone operators can legally harness the opportunities in Fiji – from capturing stunning tourism footage to agricultural mapping and emergency response support. The compliance burden is higher than recreational flying, but this ensures that commercial flights (which might be in riskier areas or performing advanced tasks) are conducted safely. CAAF maintains a “List of RPAS Commercial Operators” ^{[77] [78]} on its website, indicating that approved operators are officially recognized. Operating without authorisation, conversely, can lead to legal trouble, as discussed next.

Operational Restrictions and No-Fly Zones

Fiji’s drone regulations lay out clear operational limits to ensure drones do not pose a hazard to aircraft or people on the ground. These rules apply to all drone flights (unless you have a specific exemption from CAAF, which is rare). Key restrictions include:

• Airspace Restrictions:Controlled airspace is off-limits to drones without explicit permission. In practice, this means you cannot fly in the vicinity of airports or in aeronautical zones where planes are operating. Fiji’s law bans any drone (or other aerial device) within 3 km (2 mi) of a domestic airport and within 5 km (3 mi) of an international airport ^[79]. For example, Nadi International Airport’s airspace covers much of the Nadi area – you wouldn’t be allowed to fly a drone in downtown Nadi or near the airport’s approach paths. The same goes for Nausori (Suva) Airport’s airspace covering Suva city ^[80]. Additionally, drones are not allowed in designated “flying training areas” or military airspaces either ^[81]. If a commercial operator ever needs to fly in controlled airspace (say, for a sanctioned event), they would have to coordinate with air traffic control and CAAF for a special clearance. For most users, it’s safest to assume no flying anywhere near airports or flight paths.
• Maximum Altitude: Fiji imposes a relatively low ceiling – 200 feet above ground level – for unmanned aircraft ^[82]. This is about 60 meters. Staying under 200 ft helps keep drones well below manned aircraft that may be on approach to airports or helicopters operating. Exceeding this altitude is illegal unless specifically approved by CAAF (under Reg 78(2) exceptions ^[83], which are rarely granted). In practical terms, keep your drone low; many drones have a software altitude lock you can set to 60 m to be safe.
• Visual Line of Sight (VLOS): You must always keep the drone within your own eyesight during flight ^[84]. Using binoculars or purely first-person view (FPV) goggles does not count – the idea is you or an observing crew member can directly see the drone and its orientation. This rule ensures pilots can avoid collisions and maintain control. Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations are not permitted for general drone flying in Fiji ^[85]. (Any BVLOS projects would need a special experimental approval, likely reserved for certain government or research operations.)
• Daylight and Weather: Drones may only be flown in daylight hours (official sunrise to sunset) and in good weather conditions ^{[86] [87]}. Flying at night or in low visibility (fog, heavy rain) is prohibited unless you have explicit CAAF authorisation for a specific operation. Even if your drone has lights, night flying poses risks to other aircraft and to people (you can easily lose orientation or depth perception). So, plan to fly only when you have plenty of light and reasonably clear skies. Always check the weather forecast – sudden tropical rain or wind gusts can not only endanger your drone but also violate permit conditions if you continue flying in unsafe weather.
• Over People and Property:Drones cannot be flown over crowds or private property without permission. CAAF’s guidelines and permit safety tips make it clear you should avoid flying over or too close to populous areas, open-air assemblies, or busy public spaces ^[88]. This includes sporting events, concerts, or any gathering of people. You also should not hover over private homes, backyards, or persons who have not consented – this can be deemed both a safety hazard and an invasion of privacy. Fiji places high value on privacy (especially at tourist resorts and in villages), so overflying someone’s property or a resort beach full of guests could result in complaints and enforcement action. When in doubt, keep a wide distance from people and buildings not involved in your activity.
• Sensitive Sites: Numerous sensitive locations are no-fly zones for drones. These include:
  • Government and Security Sites: You must not fly over or around government buildings, military bases or barracks, police stations, prisons, or the Parliament complex ^[89]. Such areas are protected for national security and privacy reasons.
  • Hospitals: Drones can disturb medical heliports or patient privacy, so hospitals are off-limits without special clearance ^[90].
  • Critical Infrastructure: While not explicitly listed in the permit, it’s advisable to avoid power stations, communication towers, and ports unless authorised – similar logic to avoiding fuel depots which are explicitly mentioned ^[91].
  • Resorts and Hotels: By regulation, you cannot fly at a resort property without the management’s prior permission ^[92]. Many resorts in Fiji have “no drone” policies to protect their guests. Always check with resort management if you plan to fly on their grounds; often they will designate certain times or areas if they do allow it at all.
  • Cultural and Protected Sites: Fiji’s drone rules also align with cultural sensitivity. While not enumerated in the law, the practice is to avoid flying over traditional villages, religious sites, or during cultural ceremonies without explicit consent. Some villages consider drones intrusive or even offensive during events. Additionally, national parks and marine protected areas may have their own rules prohibiting drones to prevent disturbance to wildlife ^{[93] [94]} (for example, parks protecting nesting birds or sensitive ecosystems like reef areas). Always research if your flight area is within a protected zone.
• Flying from Vessels: If you plan to launch a drone from a boat (say, while sailing or on a cruise), be cautious. The law’s wording “no aerial device may be towed, flown or operated from a vessel within 3 km of an aerodrome” suggests you cannot fly from a moving vessel near airports ^[95]. At sea, it’s generally acceptable to fly from a boat in open areas, but you should still comply with altitude and no-fly over any nearby island or village without permission. Also, keep in mind that launching and catching drones from boats can be risky due to movement – ensure you’re experienced or you might lose the drone to the water.
• Intoxication Prohibited: Flying a drone under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal. Fiji’s rules include an impairment clause analogous to driving: you must not pilot a drone with a blood alcohol content of 0.08% or higher ^[96]. This mirrors laws for vehicle drivers – essentially don’t drink and drone. Always be sober and alert when operating.

In summary, Fiji’s airspace rules for drones are strict but straightforward: stay low, stay clear of airports, stay away from people and sensitive places, and always keep control of your aircraft. Many of these restrictions are common sense and echo international best practices. Violating any of these can lead to your permit being revoked on the spot, or worse, an accident. If your permit includes additional conditions (CAAF might add specific no-fly zones or supervision requirements for your case), make sure to honor those to the letter. By respecting these rules, you help ensure drones remain a positive tool in Fiji and avoid incidents that could lead to even tougher regulations.

Penalties and Enforcement

Fiji’s authorities have made it clear that breaking drone laws has serious consequences. CAAF works together with local police to enforce regulations. If you are caught flying without the proper permit or violating the operational rules, you could face:

• Criminal Charges: Operating an unapproved drone is essentially operating an aircraft illegally. CAAF has stated that anyone flying an RPA without authorisation is in breach of the Air Navigation Regulations and can be charged under criminal law ^[97]. These cases can be prosecuted in court. For example, if someone flew a drone in a restricted area and endangered a landing aircraft, they could be charged and brought before a magistrate.
• Fines and Imprisonment: The law provides for penalties including fines and jail time. While the exact fine can depend on the offense and the court’s judgment, guidance from recent summaries indicate violators risk up to a six-month imprisonment and/or fines for drone offenses ^[98]. The six-month jail term is likely a reference to penalties under the Civil Aviation laws for breaches of safety regulations. Even if jail time is not imposed, fines can be significant (potentially thousands of Fijian dollars), especially if the violation caused safety risks or harm.
• Confiscation of Equipment: Authorities may confiscate your drone on the spot if you’re found in violation. Stories from tourists and locals suggest that police or CAAF inspectors will not hesitate to ground your drone and take it if you lack a permit or are flying recklessly. The drone might be held as evidence for a potential prosecution, or in minor cases, returned with a warning after you show compliance. However, getting your drone back is not guaranteed if an offense was committed – it could be forfeited.
• Permit Revocation: If you have a CAAF-issued permit and you break the rules, CAAF can suspend or revoke your permit administratively. For instance, providing false information on your application, or failing to adhere to stated conditions, is an offense that can lead to your authorisation being canceled ^[99]. CAAF emphasizes honesty in applications – lying about your drone’s specifications or your intended flight area is a crime under Section 17A of the CAAF Act ^[100]. Should your permit be revoked, you would have to reapply (and convincing CAAF to trust you again could be difficult after a violation).
• Liability for Damages: Separate from regulatory penalties, you could be held civilly liable for any injuries or damages caused by your drone. For example, if your unauthorized flight leads to an accident – say, your drone strikes a person or causes a car accident – you could face lawsuits for damages. This is another reason why having insurance (for commercial operators, as required, and for hobbyists, as a precaution) is important. It’s worth noting that even if you have insurance, deliberate violation of laws might void your coverage.
• Travel Blacklist: While not formalized, a foreign tourist violating drone laws could potentially face immigration consequences. Fiji values tourist safety and privacy; a serious incident could result in the offender being asked to leave the country or being flagged for future entry. This is speculative but underscores that as a visitor you should be on your best behavior with respect to local laws.

Enforcement in Fiji has been tightening as drone use grows. In August 2025, for example, lawmakers highlighted that gaps in drone regulation need to be swiftly addressed for national security ^[101]. This implies that enforcement will only get stricter. The CAAF often asks the public to report illicit drone use ^[102] – so locals might report seeing a drone in a banned area. If you observe someone flying dangerously or illegally, you too can report it to CAAF or the police. CAAF has a hotline (aviation safety line) for such reports ^[103].

Bottom line: Don’t risk it. The beauty of Fiji is not worth a night in jail or a massive fine because of a drone flight. The rules may seem bureaucratic, but they are enforced with safety in mind. By following the permitting process and respecting the restrictions, you can enjoy stress-free flying and avoid any penalties.

Recent Developments and Future Outlook

Drone regulation in Fiji is evolving, with 2024–2025 seeing noteworthy changes:

• Online Permit System: One of the biggest practical improvements has been the introduction of an online application portal for drone permits. In the past, applicants had to email forms and wait for manual processing. As of late 2025, CAAF launched an online form submission on their website ^[104], streamlining the process. Some users have reported receiving their recreational drone approval almost instantly via the new system ^[105]. This digital initiative shows CAAF’s commitment to making compliance easier for users. Pilots should check the CAAF “Drone Applications” page for the latest application method – it likely features web forms for OP 137 and OP 138 now, along with guidance.
• Registration and Tracking: Fiji appears to be aligning with international trends by enforcing registration for drones over 250 g. This threshold is common (it matches regulations in the US, UK, etc.), aimed at capturing all but the smallest toy drones in the registration net. The registration helps in accountability – if a rogue drone is found or causes an incident, authorities can trace it via its number. While this requirement was always implicitly there (the permit process registered your drone), by explicitly calling out 250 g, Fiji clarifies that even newer mini drone models aren’t totally exempt. This was likely implemented in response to the influx of ultra-light 4K camera drones; Fiji doesn’t want untracked drones flying just because they slip under a weight limit.
• Legislative Updates: Recognizing new challenges (like privacy, security, and the potential misuse of drones), Fiji’s government is working on updating the legal framework. In August 2025, the Opposition in Parliament urged fast-tracking new drone legislation to fill “regulatory gaps” ^[106]. Areas that might be addressed in new laws could include privacy protections (explicit bans over private property without consent), specific fines and penalty structures for drone offenses, and clearer distinctions between recreational and commercial UAVs in the law. There may also be moves to implement “geo-fencing” requirements or remote ID in the future, as many countries are doing. As of this report, no new Act has been passed yet, but pilots should watch for any Drone Bill or amendments to the Civil Aviation Act that Fiji’s government might introduce soon.
• Public Awareness and Training: CAAF has been actively trying to educate the public. They have sections on their website answering “Frequently Asked Questions” about drones, and have issued safety posters and notices regarding laser lights and drones ^{[107] [108]}. With more local Fijians adopting drone technology (for weddings, events, social media content, etc.), expect more public workshops or campaigns on drone safety. Additionally, accredited drone training schools are now operating in Fiji ^[109]. By 2025, local institutes in partnership with CAAF are offering courses so that aspiring drone pilots can get certified without going abroad. This will raise the competency of operators domestically.
• Drone Industry Growth: On the commercial side, Fiji’s drone industry is expanding in areas like tourism photography, agriculture, conservation, and infrastructure ^[110]. With that growth, CAAF might introduce a tiered system of permits or additional categories (for example, perhaps a simplified permit for micro-drones or for certain low-risk commercial uses). They will likely observe how other countries manage drones for things like deliveries or advanced operations. Given Fiji’s geography of many islands, there’s interest in drones for inter-island transport or emergency supply drops; such innovative uses would require CAAF to craft new regulations (e.g. corridor flying or BVLOS operations by certified companies).
• Security Concerns: The call for legislative action also stems from security concerns – drones can be used maliciously (for spying, contraband delivery, etc.). Fiji’s national security review noted drones as potential non-traditional threats ^[111]. So we might see rules about flying near prisons (already in place) enforced more, and possibly rules against weaponizing drones or flying over diplomatic areas. While this mostly affects government and defense policy, it trickles down to civilian rules to ensure drones aren’t misused.

In conclusion, Fiji’s drone laws in 2025 present a comprehensive framework that, while strict, enables both hobbyists and professionals to fly legally with the proper precautions. CAAF is the key authority to heed – their regulations and any updates should be your guiding source. Always check CAAF’s website for the latest forms and notices before flying. With the proper permit in hand and respect for Fiji’s airspace rules, you can capture the stunning landscapes of Fiji or carry out aerial work safely and enjoyably. The regulatory environment may continue to tighten as drones proliferate, but staying informed and compliant is the sure way to avoid trouble and have a successful flight in Fiji’s skies.

Sources:

• Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji – Regulations & Guidance for RPAS (Drones) ^{[112] [113] [114]}
• Fiji Aeronautical Information Circular 14/22 – Operation of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems ^{[115] [116]}
• CAAF Form OP 137 (Recreational Drone Permit Application) ^{[117] [118]}; CAAF Form OP 138 (Commercial RPAS Application) ^[119]
• CAAF Drone FAQs / A-Z Guide – Licensing and Airspace Restrictions ^{[120] [121]}
• Fiji Times – Debate on Drone Legislation (Aug 13 2025) ^[122]
• Fiji Drone Law Summaries – UAV Coach, Drone-Laws.com, Skyward Wings (2023–2025 updates) ^{[123] [124] [125]}
• Flying Glass (Drone Laws Fiji 2025) – Tourist Guidelines & Recent Changes ^{[126] [127]}

References

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