Aerial Permit in Nepal: Everything You Need to know

  • by Admin
  • Mar 1, 2023

If you want to do any aerial photography, or videography by using a drone, helicopter, or other air device,  you will need an Aerial Permit in Nepal. Nepal Film Production (NFP) helps you simplify the process of obtaining an aerial permit for your destinations by handling all the necessary paperwork. We also coordinate with the relevant authorities, ensuring that all legal requirements are met.  The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) will provide you with all the valid permits. 

A Nepalese aerial permit application requires flight information, insurance documents, and other details. As acquiring an aerial permit is a sensitive matter in Nepal, you need to know some rules and regulations. Similarly, you need to make sure that you do not fly near airports, international borders, or sensitive government installations. 

So, it’s important to check the policies for flying drones with the CAAN before you plan to fly your drone or any other aerial equipment in Nepal.

Equipment Used for Aerial Shorts

Aerial photography and videography are the new trends in the world. The results we get from this equipment are exceptional and mesmerizing. You can find lots of devices for aerial cinematography, such as:

  • Traditional manned aircraft: A human pilot operates traditional manned aircraft. Traditional manned is the best option if you want high-altitude shots that can cover large areas quickly.
  • Drones: If you are searching for cost-effective and flexible aircraft, drones can be the best option. Nowadays, drones are one of the most popular and liked equipment. It can take fabulous pictures and videos for you. The cameras on drones are capable of capturing high-quality video and images at higher altitudes. It completely depends on their size and other compatibility.

The aerial photography and videography equipment in Nepal must follow CAAN regulations. Similarly, pilots must have an aerial permit from Nepal’s government.

Rules and Regulations for Obtaining an Aerial Permit in Nepal

The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) is in charge of the legal laws related to aerial photography and drone flights. According to CAAN, all drone flights need an aerial permit. Similarly, operators should obey the rules and regulations set forth by the authority.

Weight of the drone: In case you have a drone weighing less than 2 kg (4.5 pounds), then you don’t need to have CAAN authorization. If you have private aerial equipment, you can fly it up to 200 feet with 2 kg of weight. 

Submit the necessary documents: The operator should submit proof of insurance that covers the equipment and documents. These documents certify the aircraft is in safe operating condition. CAAN can ask for additional information or documents depending on the specific flight.  

Maintaining distance: Pilots must maintain a safe distance from other aircraft and people. They should not fly into restricted areas. 

Avoid flying a drone: The operator should avoid flying over wildlife reserves, protected areas, and cultural heritage sites. Operators need to avoid flying a drone at night or in bad weather conditions.

According to the rules, the CAAN has the authority to revoke the permit and take legal action against anyone who violates the rule. It would take an average of 10–14 working days to get aerial permits with all approvals from the four ministries.

Updated rules in 2021 for aerial permits in Nepal 

  • The maximum altitude permitted is 120 meters.
  • Prior authorization from the Department of Tourism, the CAAN, and the Ministry of Home Affairs if your drone weighs more than 2 kilograms. 
  • You must safely pilot your drone. You do not require permission if your drone weighs under 2 kg.
  • The drone can fly up to 500 meters away.
  • Pilots must maintain a minimum distance of 50 meters from any building, vehicles and craft.
  • Operator needs to keep an eye on the drone at all times while it is in the air.
  • At least 150 meters should separate you from any crowded areas.
  • Avoid flying too close to any airport locations.
  • Nothing should ever fall from drones.

Different Types of Aerial Related Permit in Nepal

The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) issues different types of aviation permits in Nepal. They provide different locations, depending on the purpose and scope of the flight. Some examples of the different types of aerial purpose permission include:

1. Aerial Advertising/Commercial Permit:  Any commercial use of a drone requires a separate flying permit in Nepal. You can get it from the Department of Tourism along with a CAAN permit.

2. Aerial Inspection Permit: Just like other permits, you have to reveal the purpose of the inspection to the government as well as to CAAN.

It is important to note that the rules and regulations for each type of permit may vary. In Nepal, the operator must follow specific guidelines set by the CAAN for any civil aviation permit. Similarly, the permit fee varies according to the type of flight and the equipment.

Do I need a drone permit in Nepal?

Yes, drone flights need an aerial permit in Nepal. It includes recreational, hobby, and commercial flights. You will need an aerial permit from the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) if you are planning to fly a drone in Nepal. It must apply the rules and regulations set forth by the authority. 

Additionally, it’s important to check the regulations of flying drones with the CAAN before you plan to fly your drone in Nepal, as many areas are restricted for flying drones and the rules and regulations for drone use in Nepal are subject to change.

You can contact the Nepal Flying Permit (NFP) – specializes in obtaining aviation permits for various activities, including drone operations.

NFP can assist with the following steps for obtaining a drone permit in Nepal:

  • Flight Plan: NFP can help you prepare a detailed flight plan and submit it to the CAAN.
  • Insurance Coverage: NFP can assist with obtaining insurance coverage that meets the standards set by the CAAN.
  • Permit Fee: NFP can help you determine the fee amount and facilitate the payment process.
  • Regulations: NFP can provide guidance on the rules and regulations set by the CAAN for flying drones in Nepal, ensuring that you follow all the necessary guidelines.

By working with NFP, you can streamline the process of obtaining a drone permit in Nepal, saving time and ensuring compliance with the regulations set by the CAAN.

Procedure to register different aerial equipment in Nepal

There are a few steps to register aerial equipment in Nepal. The operator needs to submit all information related to equipment, like size, weight, manufacturing company, and so on. You need to follow the following steps for registering aerial equipment in Nepal:

Equipment registration: You need to register the aerial equipment before operating from CAAN. The operator should submit the serial number and other information to CAAN.

Unique call sign: After the equipment registration, the operator gets a unique call sign from the CAAN. Identifying the equipment during flights is easy when there is a unique call sign.

Radio license: You need to submit the radio license you receive from CAAN. This license is important for communicating while using the equipment.

Mark the equipment: There should be a registration number and unique sign on your equipment, as per the CAAN. It is very important to mark your aerial devices.

Aerial permit: If the operator uses the aerial equipment without a permit from CAAN, they can be  punished or even arrested. You need to get a permit for any aerial photography, videography, or drone flight. You cannot operate the aerial equipment without an aerial permit.

The registration procedure differs based on the precise equipment and the intended flight. The operator must abide by all of CAAN’s laws and regulations. While using any equipment for business purposes, you need to learn the laws and guidelines. The laws and guidelines are from the Department of Tourism.

Aerial Permit Registration Process in Nepal 

People can apply for aerial permit registration online. You need to follow the following guidelines: 

Visit the official website of CAAN: For online permit registration, you need to visit the official website of the CAAN. After that, navigate to the appropriate section. 

Account creation: The second step is to create an account. In this step, you need to share your personal and contact information.

Submit the required documents: The third step is to upload the required documents. The documents include a flight plan, insurance, an airworthiness certificate, or any other requirement of the permit type.

Pay the permit fee: You can use credit cards and other cards to pay the permit fee online.

Issuance of permit: When CAAN reviews and approves your application and documents, you will get your permit.

Download the permit: After issuing the permit, you can download the portal. It is a mandatory process if you want to fly your aerial equipment. Similarly, the permit is valid only for a specific time period. The operator must renew the permit before it expires.

How Nepal Film Production (NFP)  helps to get aerial permit in Nepal

Hey, if you want an easy aerial permit, then you have to go nowhere because we, NFP, have been working on this for years. We know the right approach to gaining an aerial permit for you. Nepal Film Production is here to assist you in navigating the complex regulations and procedures set by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN).

Our production companies can assist in the following ways:

First, it is crucial to understand the purpose of carrying an aerial permit. After you realize your real motive, we help you determine which filming permit is most appropriate for you.

  • People don’t know about documentation so if you join us, here is a big advantage for you. We will help you in preparing the required documents, such as flight plans and insurance. We will also provide you with permissions from other government agencies and private entities.
  • NFP will inform you about the payment of permit fees and other costs associated with obtaining the permit. Likewise, we assure you to get permits within a timely manner. This helps you avoid incurring extra costs by extending your filming time.
  • NFP guides you in arranging, coordinating logistics and other support services.

Once you connect with us, you don’t need to worry about documentation, policies, or other factors. NFP will make your filming journey in Nepal more exciting and easier. Nepal Film Production guides you in arranging and coordinating logistics for your film production needs in Nepal. We provide expert assistance and support to ensure a smooth and successful filming experience. From location scouting to equipment rental and transportation, we are here to help you every step of the way. 

FAQS on Aerial permits in Nepal

Why choose NFP to get aerial permits in Nepal?

The most effective option for acquiring aerial licenses in Nepal is Nepal Film Production. We have a group of professionals on staff who are knowledgeable about and skilled at navigating the permit procedure. We handle all the legal paperwork and regulations. So, you can concentrate on your filming.

What are the restricted areas for aerial video shooting?

Under the new rule, some of the regions for drone operations have restrictions:

  • The airport area (up to 5 km) must be clear of all drone activity.
  • The international boundary should be located within a 5-kilometer horizontal distance.
  • The religious, heritage, and sacred sites, up to a radius of 1 km.
  • President, Vice President, Prime Minister, VIP office, and residents within a one-kilometer aerial radius.
  • Military and safety offices up to 1 km, and other safety departments up to 500 m.
  • Conservation areas.
  • Areas with conflicts and war.

Provincial or local governments impose other restrictions. 

What are the scouting locations where aerial permits are essential? How can NFP simplify the process?

Nepal is known for its stunning mountain landscapes, including Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world. Other popular mountain destinations in Nepal for fishing where you can use aerial equipment are Annapurna, Langtang, and Mustang. In addition to mountains, Nepal is also home to many beautiful lakes and rivers, such as Phewa Lake, Rara Lake, and the Kali Gandaki River. These natural features provide opportunities for activities such as trekking, climbing, and rafting,  where you will need aerial permits to capture the videography and photography. 

In Nepal, obtaining an aerial permit for filming is not an easy process. It requires coordinating with numerous government departments. You need to make sure that you follow all relevant laws. The Nepal Film Production (NFP) helps filmmakers make the necessary preparations for filming in Nepal, including helping them secure aerial permits. They can streamline the procedure by taking care of all the paperwork and working with the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal. Similarly, they also help with practicalities like arranging for a helicopter and pilot. This can help save time and effort for filmmakers, allowing them to concentrate on their work.

What is aerial photography, and what are its different types?

Aerial photography is defined as the process through which you can take photos with the help of an aircraft, drone, or other flying platform. Aerial photography allows you to capture images of landscapes, cities, and other areas from a perspective that is not possible from the ground. There are various types of aerial photography mentioned below: 

  • Vertical Aerial Photography: Vertical Aerial Photography is when you take photos from an overhead perspective.  It shows a view that is directly beneath the aircraft or drone. It helps you with mapping, surveying, and other applications. It requires a precise and accurate view of the ground.
  • Oblique Aerial Photography: When you take an angle to the ground, between 30 and 60 degrees, to take photos, it is oblique Aerial Photography. It helps you show a more natural perspective of the landscape. It helps you to capture images of buildings, landmarks, and other structures.
  • Low-Altitude Aerial Photography: When you take photos from a low altitude, which is less than 1000 feet above the ground, it is Low-Altitude.  It allows detailed images of the ground. It is mainly for real estate, architecture, and construction. It also helps in capturing images of wildlife and other natural phenomena.
  • High-Altitude Aerial Photography: High-Altitude Aerial Photography allows you to capture images from above 1000 feet in the air. It allows you to have wide coverage of the area. It is for applications such as geological mapping and monitoring of large areas of land.
  • Thermal Aerial Photography: Thermal aerial photography uses thermal cameras to capture images. You can use this application for searching and rescuing, monitoring wildlife. Similarly, identifying hot spots in areas such as forests and industrial plants.
  • Multi-spectral Aerial Photography: Multi-Spectra Aerial photography uses specialized cameras to capture images. It helps to take pictures of the ground in multiple spectrums of light, such as visible, infrared, and ultraviolet. It helps out for applications such as precision agriculture, forestry, and mineral exploration.

It’s crucial to remember that each sort of aerial photography has unique requirements for equipment and expertise. Similarly, some equipment may require unique licenses and certificates.

Is it illegal to use camera drones without an Aerial Permit in Nepal?

You cannot use a camera drone without an aerial permit in Nepal. It is illegal to violate the rules and regulations made by CAAN and other authorities in Nepal. Before using a camera drone, you need an aerial permit issued by the CAAN. Besides, you must know the restricted areas for drones.

The operator must have knowledge of specific rules while flying the drone. This includes maintaining a safe distance from other aircraft and people. Even if you have an aerial permit, you need to learn about restricted areas and avoid flying at night or in bad weather conditions. If the operator violates any of the rules, the CAAN has the authority to revoke the permit and take legal action.

In summary, as long as the operator follows the rules and obtains the necessary Aerial Permit in Nepal, using camera drones is not illegal.

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