The Myanmar agency responsible for drone safety, MDCA, has provided several details on flying a drone for fun or work. Please note that Myanmar has not officially published regulations governing the use of Drones. The highlights of current practice are enumerated below. For more details, contact the MDCA directly.
Are drones allowed in Myanmar?
According to MDCA, drones are allowed in Myanmar, subject to MDCA regulations. Read on for details.
Here are the most important rules to know for flying a drone in Myanmar:
All drones must be carried in luggage, and batteries must not be placed in checked baggage.
Drones must be declared at customs upon entry or face confiscation.
Anyone caught attempting to import a drone illegally faces up to three years in prison.
Even if the drone passes through customs without incident, we strongly advise you to register first and thoroughly familiarize yourself with the applicable laws before flying.
According to the Department of Civil Aviation (DCA) of the Ministry of Transport, drones operated by foreign tourists must be registered before the flight.
The area surrounding Shwedagon Pagoda and any part of Nay Pyi Taw are off-limits.
Do not fly your drone over crowds or individuals.
Avoid flying your drone near airports, government buildings, and military-controlled areas.
Avoid flying your drone too close to religious structures such as temples, pagodas, monasteries, nunneries, and academies of Buddhism.
Fly your drone only during daylight hours and in good weather.
Do not operate drones near schools or residential areas, and you should always respect the privacy of others.
Getting a permit
Myanmar has permitted the use of drones in recent years. However, a permit is required in advance, as is registering your drone at the airport.
You can contact the MDCA by sending an email to the MDCA Facebook Page
Take note that it will take at least four weeks.
Penalties
There are no clear laws in Myanmar regarding drone-related penalties.
Possessing an unregistered drone (even if you have a permit and are not flying it) can result in a prison sentence of 2-3 years.