top of page
Search
Gianluca Ardiani

Drone in Vietnam: Everything you need to know

Updated: Jul 18

In recent years, the popularity of drones has soared, providing enthusiasts with a unique perspective of the world from above. Vietnam, with its stunning landscapes and rich culture, is a prime destination for drone enthusiasts. However, before you embark on capturing the breathtaking views, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the regulations and guidelines governing drone usage in Vietnam in 2024. First of all, let's clarify that the best and easiest solution is to get support service from professionals to apply for a drone license. However, if you are planning to get to know all the information needed, scroll down through this guide before you are ready to take off with your drone.


Close up of a DJI Phantom 4 Pro v.2 drone flying in the sky

A Guide to Flying Drones in Vietnam in 2024

Understanding the Legal Landscape:

  1. Registration and Permissions: Before you take flight, it's crucial to register your drone with the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV). This process typically involves providing details about your drone, its specifications, and your personal information. Ensure that you receive the necessary approvals before operating your drone.

  2. No-Fly Zones: Familiarize yourself with the designated no-fly zones in Vietnam. These often include sensitive areas such as military installations, government buildings, and airports. Violating these restrictions can result in severe penalties, so it's imperative to check and adhere to the regulations.

  3. Insurance Requirements: To fly a drone legally in Vietnam, it's advisable to have insurance coverage. Some insurance policies specifically cater to drone operators, providing liability coverage in case of accidents or damage.

Drone flying activities are prohibited when:

  • Organizing flight activities without a flight permit.

  • Organizing flight activities in the wrong areas, conditions, and limits as prescribed. Violating regulations on national territory and border management.

  • Carrying radioactive substances, flammable substances, or explosives on aircraft or flying vehicles.

  • Launching, shooting, or dropping from the air objects and substances that are harmful or contain the risk of causing harm.

  • Installing equipment and filming and taking photos from the air without permission.

  • Hanging flags, banners, dropping leaflets, and playing propaganda on loudspeakers outside of flight licensing regulations.

  • Failure to comply with orders and signals of agencies managing and supervising flight operations.


Documents and procedures for applying for a drone flight license:

When you want to fly a drone legally, you need to apply for a flight license. Records include:

  • Application for flight license: prepare an application according to the form of Decree 79/2011/ND-CP

  • Identity card/Citizen identification card/Passport of the applicant representative (notarized photocopy required). If you are a company applying for a license, you will need a business registration certificate (notarized photocopy required).

  • Photo of a drone: requires color print, minimum size 18cm x 24cm.

  • Photo of the area where the flight license is being applied: require a color photo, use Google Maps.

Submit:

  • Application submission location: Department of Operations - General Staff - No. 1 Nguyen Tri Phuong, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi City.

  • Time to apply for a permit: At least 07 days before the scheduled date of the flight.

Get a flight license:

  1. Name, address, and contact phone number of the organization or individual licensed to fly.

  2. Identification of characteristics of the type of aircraft or aircraft (including appendices with photos and explanations of technical features of the aircraft or aircraft).

  3. The area where flight activities are organized, flight direction, and flight track.

  4. Purpose, deadline, time of flight organization.

  5. Regulations on notification of flight coordination; designate the agency that manages, supervises, or operates the flight.

  6. Other security and defense restrictions and regulations.

Close up of drone pilot setting up his drone before take off at sunset


Note:

  • Licensing is based on 1 use at a certain time and location, drone use licenses cannot be reused multiple times.

  • You are only allowed to use the correct aircraft registered on file.

  • The license fee will depend on each specific licensing request (please contact Licensed Professional Service for the most accurate advice)

  • Normal licensing time is 5-7 days.

  • No later than 07 working days, before the scheduled date of organizing the flights, organizations and individuals apply for a flight permit, or an application to amend the flight permit to the Department of Operations - General Staff.

Tips for Safe and Enjoyable Flying:

  • Local Culture and Etiquette: Respect local customs and privacy. Avoid flying over private properties, religious sites, or crowded areas without permission. This ensures a positive experience for both drone operators and the local community.

  • Weather Considerations: Vietnam's weather can be unpredictable. Check weather forecasts before flying, and avoid operating your drone in adverse conditions like heavy rain or strong winds. Safety should always be a top priority.

  • Battery Management: Be mindful of your drone's battery life, especially in remote areas where charging facilities may be limited. Carry extra batteries and a portable charger to extend your flying time.

  • Language Barrier: English may not be widely spoken in all regions of Vietnam. Consider learning some basic Vietnamese phrases or using translation apps to communicate with locals, especially if you need assistance or permission to fly in a particular area.

  • Data Security: Be cautious about where your drone's footage is stored and shared. Respect privacy laws and avoid capturing sensitive information. Additionally, be aware of any local regulations regarding the export of drone footage.


Filming Crew in Vietnam setting up DJI Inspire drone before take off

The Best Solution: get support service for applying for a drone license:

In the dynamic world of drone regulations, ensuring compliance and a hassle-free flying experience is paramount. To navigate the complexities of obtaining permissions, understanding local nuances, and staying updated on regulatory changes in Vietnam, enlisting the support of professionals can be a game-changer. Services like 2BIG Production (www.2bigproduction.com) offer comprehensive assistance with the entire process, from filling out application forms to obtaining necessary approvals. By partnering with experienced professionals, drone enthusiasts can focus on capturing breathtaking moments while leaving the intricacies of compliance in capable hands. This not only streamlines the bureaucratic process but also enhances the overall safety and enjoyment of drone flying in Vietnam, leaving you the time to just focus on the best part: prepare your drone and start filming in Vietnam.

Contact 2BIG production at the email: info@2bigproduction.com to get the best advice and service for your drone application in Vietnam.





Comentarios


bottom of page