The Icelandic Transport Authority has published information material on drone operation, which shows in a simplified manner some fundamental things to keep in mind when preparing, and during flights.
For information on flying drones in Icelandic nature or protected areas please see the website of the Icelandic Environmental Agency
The Ministry of Communications and Local Government has set out rules on the operation of remote-controlled aircraft with the aim of ensuring flight safety and the safety and rights of citizens. The regulation entered into force on 15 December 2017 and applies to flights by remote-controlled aircraft in Iceland and within Icelandic airspace. Aircraft weighing less than 250 g are exempted.
Main points
The drone must be identified by name, address and telephone number.
Commercial drones, including for research purposes, must be registered.
It is not permitted to fly drones above 120 metres without a special permit from the Icelandic Transportation Authority. Only commercial flights may be licensed..
Drone operations may not be conducted within certain distances from an airport boundary without permission from the airport operator. A special permit is not, however, required if the flight is only below the highest level of the structure in the vicinity of the drone's flight path.
The distance limit for airports with scheduled international air services, is 2 km. The distance limit for other airports with scheduled air services, is 1,5 km
It shall be ensured that the use of drones does not cause unnecessary disturbance, harm people or animals or cause damage to property. To this end, before flights are commenced, operating sites must be established so as to ensure sufficient distances from persons, animals, structures and property.
