The legality of drones has been brought into question recently after there were several incidents reported of drones flying over people’s residences last week.

In light of this, it may be useful to familiarise yourself with the laws surrounding the use of drones in Malta.

Unfortunately, there aren’t that many.

According to Transport Malta, ‘certain provisions in the Air Navigation Order apply to drone activities, however, to date there are no specific drone laws for Malta to regulate such activity.’

Even at the EU level, there appears to be no form of regulation that exists unilaterally for all Member States leaving the topic of drone legislation as a bit of a grey area.

However, based on our research, we did manage to find some information from the Civil Aviation Directorate (CAD) that pertains to drones weighing over 250 grams.

Here’s what you need to know…

1. Your drone should have a permit approved by the CAD. You can sign and submit a self-declaration form found here.

2. A permit is vaild for six months only (or as per the agreed time).

3. You can fly at a maximum height of 60 metres.

4. You can’t fly further than 300 metres.

5. Your drone should be insured if you plan to fly commercially.

6. It cannot be within two kilometers of airports.

7. You have to keep a distance of 50 metres from uninvolved people, vehicles, shops, and structures.

8. Flying in a nature reserve is prohibited.

Of course, there are certain laws that apply to the use of drones indirectly, including the fact that collecting images of people may be subject to the Data Protection Act and operating on private laws maybe be subject to trespass laws.

Malta also forms part of the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), who have also issued a few important links and information leaflets for drone operations.