Drone enthusiasts planning to fly in Mexico should be aware of the country’s drone regulations. While flying a drone is legal in Mexico, there are certain rules and restrictions that must be followed. For instance, only Mexican citizens can use a drone in the country, and drones weighing over 250 grams must be registered with the DGCA. There are also specific guidelines regarding flight times, altitude limits, and distance from aerodromes. Additionally, commercial drone operators in Mexico will be required to obtain a license. It’s important for drone pilots to stay informed about the regulations as they can change throughout the year.
Drone Laws in Mexico
When it comes to flying a drone in Mexico, it’s important to be aware of and compliant with the regulations set forth by the country’s national aviation authority, The Federal Civil Aviation Agency (AFAC). While drone use is legal in Mexico, there are several rules and restrictions that must be followed to ensure safe and responsible operation.
Mexico Drone Regulations
The AFAC is the governing body responsible for regulating drone operations in Mexico. If you have any questions or concerns about the rules and regulations before you travel, you can contact the AFAC directly at buzon_ucg@sct.gob.mx or call 55-57-23-93-00.
General Rules for Flying a Drone in Mexico
To fly a drone in Mexico, there are several general rules that must be followed. It’s important to note that only Mexican citizens are allowed to use drones in the country. Additionally, any drone weighing over 250 grams (.55 pounds) must be registered with the DGCA (General Directorate of Civil Aeronautics).
Other important rules include:
- Drones can only be flown during daylight hours.
- The drone must always remain within the operator’s visual line of sight and no farther than 1,500 feet away.
- The maximum altitude for drone flight is 400 feet above ground level.
- Flying over people, animals, and historical sites such as Chichen Itza is strictly prohibited.
- Drones must be kept at a distance of 9.2 kilometers (5 nautical miles) from any aerodrome.
- The drone’s speed must not exceed the maximum limit based on its maximum takeoff weight.
- Dropping objects from the drone that may cause harm or damage is not allowed.
- It’s important to comply with any specific drone policies set by the hotel or resort where you are staying.
These rules are in place to ensure the safety of both drone operators and the general public.
Authorization for Photography and Recording in INAH Areas
If you plan to use your drone for professional or commercial purposes in areas, monuments, and museums managed by the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), you will need to obtain authorization. This includes taking photographs, filming, or recording in these areas.
In addition to obtaining permission, there is also a fee associated with taking photos or videos in INAH areas. The fee can be quite substantial, reaching up to $10,905.00 MXN per day.
To apply for permission, you will need to provide the following:
- A script, storyboard, or dummy sketch of your project
- A written document addressed to the National Coordination of Legal Affairs, containing a brief synopsis of your project
- An application form, specifically INAH-01-001
The application process can be initiated online, but the final portion of the application must be completed at the INAH service offices.
New Regulations for Commercial Drone Operations in Mexico
Recent reports suggest that commercial drone operators in Mexico will soon be required to obtain a license in order to fly their drones. These new regulations are expected to go into effect on December 1, 2018. However, the specifics of how to obtain a license have not yet been released by the DGCA.
Based on the limited information available, it appears that to obtain a drone license in Mexico, individuals must meet the following qualifications:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be Mexican by birth
- Provide a military release card
- Have a high school diploma
- Be in good health
These qualifications may change as more information becomes available. It’s important for commercial drone operators to stay informed and updated on the latest regulations.
Mexico’s Drone Laws and Updates
It’s worth noting that drone regulations in Mexico can change throughout the year. The small unmanned aerial system (sUAS) industry is constantly evolving, and governments are continuously adjusting their regulations to keep up. It’s important for drone operators to stay informed and aware of any changes.
For more information on Mexico’s drone laws, you can refer to a document containing legislation issued by the Mexican government. However, it’s always a good idea to reach out to local authorities or a legal expert to ensure compliance with the most up-to-date regulations.
Conclusion
When flying a drone in Mexico, it’s essential to adhere to the country’s drone regulations to ensure the safety of everyone involved. From registration requirements to flight limitations and authorization for photography and recording in certain areas, there are several rules that must be followed.
It’s important to stay informed about any updates or changes to the regulations, as drone laws can evolve over time. By staying compliant and exercising responsible drone operation, drone enthusiasts can enjoy capturing stunning aerial footage in the beautiful landscapes of Mexico.
