Know All New Drone Laws In Iceland (2024 Updated)

In recent years, drones have become increasingly popular as toys and tools for photography and other hobbies. However, their use is not without controversy, and in some places, their use is strictly regulated.

One such place is Iceland, where a new law has just been passed banning the use of drones in certain areas. The reason for this ban is twofold: to protect Icelandic citizens’ privacy and prevent disturbance to wildlife. Given the high density of the population in Iceland, it is easy to see why privacy concerns would be a factor.

As a tourist destination, Iceland is a hotspot for drone enthusiasts. Its dramatic landscapes and abundance of open space make it the perfect place to fly a drone.

However, laws in place govern the use of drones in Iceland, so it’s important to be aware of them before taking your drone out for a spin.

In this post, we’ll take a look at the drone laws in Iceland and provide some tips on how to stay compliant while flying your drone. 

General Drone Rules in Iceland (2024)

If you’re planning on flying a drone in Iceland for recreational purposes, here are the most important rules to know based on our research and interpretation of the laws.

• To operate a drone, you must have your name, address, and phone number clearly displayed on the device.
• If a drone is going to be flown in an urban area, it must weigh 3 kilograms or less.
• The weight limit for drones flying in rural areas is 25 kilograms or 55 pounds.
• Any drone weighing more than 20 kilograms (44 pounds) must have insurance.
• Do not fly any higher than 120 meters (394 feet) above the ground or sea.
• Do not fly your drone over large groups of people or individual people.
• Do not fly closer than 2 kilometers (1.24 miles) from any international airport.
• Please do not fly within 1.5 kilometers (0.93 miles) of any other airports to ensure safety.
• Do not fly your drone within 164 feet of any building in an urban area or 492 feet of any building in a rural area.
• Do not fly your drone closer than 150 meters (492 feet) to any public building.
• A drone pilot must always be able to see their drone while it is in the air.
• It is the responsibility of drone pilots to stay updated on local drone regulations and privacy restrictions.
• Drones must not impede air traffic.
• Drones are not allowed in airspace that has a lot of vehicular or maritime traffic.
• Any damage done by a drone during flight is the responsibility of its pilot.

Read Also: New Drone Laws in Venezuela

Rules for Commercial Use In Iceland

According to our research and interpretation of the laws, here are the most important commercial drone flying rules to know before you travel to Iceland.

• Every drone must be registered with the ITA and have an identification number.
• Drones must not exceed 7 kilograms (15.5 pounds) when flying in urban areas.
• Drones must weigh 25 kilograms (55 pounds) or less to fly in rural areas.
• Drones that weigh more than 20 kilograms (44 pounds) must be insured.
• Do not fly higher than 120 meters (394 feet) above the ground or sea.
• Do not fly your drone over crowds or people.
• Do not fly within 2 kilometers (1.24 miles) of any airport, whether it be domestic or international.
• You must be at least 1.5 kilometers (0.93 miles) away from any other airport when flying.
• In city limits, do not fly your drone closer than 50 meters (164 feet) to any buildings. In more suburban and rural areas, the requirement extends to 150 meters (492 feet) from any structures.
• For the safety of those around you, do not fly your drone within 150 meters (492 feet) of a public building.
• While flying their drone, pilots must be able to see it without any obstruction.
• All drone pilots must investigate and be aware of both local drone regulations as well as privacy laws.

The Icelandic Transport Authority (ITA)

The Icelandic Transport Authority (ITA) is a government agency responsible for regulating air traffic in Iceland. The ITA’s main objectives are to ensure air traffic safety and protect the environment.

The ITA is also responsible for managing Iceland’s airspace, and it works closely with the Icelandic Civil Aviation Administration to ensure that all flights are conducted according to international standards. In recent years, the ITA has been involved in several innovative projects, including using drones for airspace management.

The ITA is also working on a new project to develop an online platform allowing pilots to file flight plans electronically.

Read Also: Drone Laws in Portugal

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA)

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is an independent regulatory body responsible for ensuring European civil aviation safety.

The agency works closely with national authorities, industry, and other stakeholders to promote a high level of safety throughout the EU. One of the EASA’s key priorities is regulating drones, which are increasingly being used for commercial and recreational purposes.

The agency has issued a number of rules and regulations governing the use of drones, including specifying minimum height requirements and distance from people and buildings.

In addition, the EASA is developing a Drone Operations Manual, which will guide best practices for flying drones safely and responsibly. As the use of drones continues to grow, the EASA will play an important role in ensuring that they are operated in a safe and responsible manner.

Operation Categories in European Union

Three different categories of drones can be operated in the European Union, and each has its own set of rules and regulations.

Open category

Drones that fall into the “open” category can be flown without special authorization so long as they meet some essential safety criteria.

Open-category drones are those that weigh 25kg or less and aren’t operated for commercial gain. Even though you don’t need a permit to fly these types of aircraft, you must obey regulations established by the EASA.

Open-category drones have been growing in popularity in the European Union due to their many benefits. They are relatively affordable and convenient to use for a variety of purposes, including commercial applications and recreation.

Drones are seen as more user-friendly than other unmanned aircraft systems and have the potential to revolutionize aviation and transport.

While there are certainly some challenges associated with drone usage in the EU, it is clear that these aircraft will play a vital role in the future of transportation.

Specific category

The specific category is often considered more limited than the open category, and not all commercial activities are comprehensive. For instance, you would need explicit consent to photograph or film people.

There are various other restrictions that come with operating a specific-category drone, so it’d be best to consult with EASA before usage. A drone that falls into the specific category requires explicit permission from the powers before it can take flight.

These drones, which Lowest Price Drones cites as weighing 25kg and 150kg, are only allowed to fly for commercial purposes. If you want to pilot one of these machines, you must obtain a permit through EASA.

Certified category

A certified category drone is a safety-approved model that adheres to specific regulations. EASA– European Union’s aviation regulator has various certification programs for drones.

Thus, anyone wanting to operate one of these unmanned aircraft should speak with the agency first. If a drone weighs more than 150kg, it is a certified category and can be used for commercial purposes after you obtain a permit from the EASA.

Read Also: Drone Laws in Georgia (U.S.A), Penalty, Rules

No Drone Zones In Iceland

No Drone Zones are areas where drones are not allowed to fly. There are many reasons why these zones exist, but the most common one is to protect wildlife. Iceland is home to some of the most beautiful and fragile animals in the world, and drones can disturb their habitat.

In addition, drones can also pose a threat to human safety. For example, if a drone fails to navigate a No Drone Zone properly, it could crash into a building or person.

As a result, these zones are typically well-marked and heavily enforced. Violators may face stiff penalties, including fines and jail time. So if you’re planning on flying a drone in Iceland, be sure to familiarize yourself with the No Drone Zones before take-off.

Is it Legal to Fly Drones in Iceland?

Yes, it is legal to fly drones in Iceland as long as they adhere to the regulations set forth by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). You must obtain a permit from EASA if your drone weighs more than 25kg or is intended for commercial use.

Additionally, all drone operators must obey local laws and regulations regarding airspace management and safety. You should contact the Icelandic Directorate of Civil Aviation before flying any unmanned aircraft.

Do I need a license to fly a drone in the EU?

Not necessarily. It depends on the type of drone you intend to fly and for what purpose. You don’t need a license if your drone weighs 25kg or less and isn’t used for commercial gain.

However, if your aircraft weighs more than 25kg or is intended for commercial purposes, then you will need to obtain a permit from the EASA. Additionally, all pilots should familiarize themselves with the rules and regulations set forth by their

Read Also: New Drone Laws In New Jersey

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are a number of important rules and regulations governing the use of drones in Iceland. All drone pilots must register their drones with the ITA, maintain a certain distance from airports, people, and buildings, and obey all local laws regarding privacy when flying.

Fortunately, both Icelandic and European Union authorities have developed strict guidelines that govern the operation of drones in Iceland.

By following these regulations, drone operators can ensure the safety of those around them while also enjoying their time flying drones, whether they are recreational pilots or seeking to use a drone for commercial purposes.

There is something available for everyone in Iceland and Europe. Hope this article was helpful in providing some insight into the regulations for drone use in Iceland. Please share your thoughts in the comments section below.