Flying FPV (First-Person View) drones in India is more thrilling than ever, but with new freedoms come stricter rules. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) updated its drone regulations in 2025, and understanding these rules is critical to avoid hefty penalties and ensure safe, legal flying.
Latest DGCA Updates for 2025
The DGCA has rolled out several key updates:
- Mandatory UIN for All Non-Nano Drones: Every drone above 250 grams (micro and above) must be registered on the Digital Sky Platform.
- Nano Drones (Below 250g): These do not require a UIN but must follow no-fly rules.
- Drone Certification: Only drones approved under the Certification Scheme for Unmanned Aircraft Systems are permitted.
- Green, Yellow, and Red Zones: The 2025 update features revised interactive airspace maps on Digital Sky.
- Remote Pilot License: Required for flying drones above the micro category (2 kg+), especially for commercial or BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) operations.
Step-by-Step Registration on the Digital Sky Platform
To fly legally, follow these steps to register:
- Visit: https://digitalsky.dgca.gov.in
- Create a Profile: Sign up as an individual or organisation.
- Add Drone Details:
- Upload the drone make/model.
- Attach Type Certificate (for applicable categories).
- Apply for UIN:
- Pay the required fee.
- Wait for DGCA approval.
- Get Remote Pilot License (if needed):
- Enrol in a DGCA-authorised training organisation.
- Pass the required tests.
Once approved, your drone will be issued a Digital Sky ID and Remote Pilot Certificate (if applicable).
No-Fly Zones (with Google Maps Coordinates)
Flying your drone in restricted areas can get you in serious trouble. Avoid the following high-risk zones:
- Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport: [28.5562, 77.1000] (within 5 km radius)
- Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji Airport: [19.0896, 72.8656] (within 5 km radius)
- Chennai International Airport: [12.9941, 80.1709] (within 5 km radius)
- India Gate, Delhi: [28.6129, 77.2295]
- Military Bases & Cantonments: Locations across India are red zones on Digital Sky.
Always cross-check real-time maps on Digital Sky before flying.
Penalties for Illegal Flying in Restricted Areas
Ignoring drone laws can cost you:
- Up to ₹50,000 Fine for flying without registration or in red zones.
- Drone Confiscation by law enforcement.
- Imprisonment for serious breaches, especially near airports or military zones.
Stay updated and fly safely to avoid legal action.
How to Apply for Flight Permissions (with Template)
In yellow or controlled zones, you must apply for flight permission via the Digital Sky Platform:
- Log in and select “Flight Plan.”
- Submit Mission Details:
- Location
- Altitude
- Duration
- Wait for Approval:
- Usually processed in 24-48 hours.
Permission Template Example:
Subject: Request for RPAS Flight Permission in Yellow Zone
To Whom It May Concern,
I am requesting permission to operate a registered micro-category drone in the Yellow Zone at [Location] on [Date] between [Time].
UIN: [Drone UIN]
Pilot License ID: [If applicable]
Purpose: [Recreational/Photography/Survey]
Regards,
[Your Name]
[Contact Info]Final Thoughts
Understanding DGCA drone laws in India is not just about legality—it’s about flying responsibly. Whether a hobbyist or a commercial pilot, staying compliant in 2025 ensures your FPV adventures stay airborne without legal turbulence.