DJI Drones in India – What You Need to Know Before You Fly
Got a DJI drone and planning to use it in India? You’re not alone. Thousands of hobbyists and pros love the smooth footage and easy handling, but the rules can feel confusing. This guide breaks down the must‑know points: licences, travel paperwork, and the rules for putting on a drone light show.
Getting a Drone Licence in India
The first thing to sort out is the DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) licence. If your drone weighs more than 250 g, you’ll need a Remote Pilot Licence (RPL). The process is pretty straightforward:
- Register online: Head to the Digital Sky Platform, fill in your details, and attach a copy of your ID.
- Take the online test: It’s a 30‑minute MCQ exam covering safety, airspace, and Indian drone law. You’ll need a 70% pass to move on.
- Complete a practical flight: Book a session with an approved training centre. They’ll watch you fly a DJI model and confirm you can handle it safely.
- Receive your licence: Once you clear both steps, the DGCA issues a digital RPL valid for five years.
Keep the licence handy on your phone; you’ll be asked to show it if a police officer stops you. Also, note that the licence only covers drones up to 2 kg unless you apply for a higher‑weight permit.
Flying Your DJI Drone in India: Travel Tips & Show Rules
Bringing a DJI drone across the border isn’t a nightmare, but you need to follow a few checkpoints. At customs, declare the drone and show your purchase receipt. Packing it in a hard‑case protects the gimbal, and labeling the box as “personal electronics” speeds up clearance.
Once you’re in the country, stay clear of restricted zones. The DGCA map flags airports, military bases, and some major stadiums as no‑fly areas. A quick check on the Digital Sky app tells you whether a location is green (fly), yellow (restricted), or red (off‑limits).
If you want to put on a drone light show, the rules tighten up. You need a special “UAV event permit” from the DGCA, which requires:
- A detailed flight plan showing altitude, timing, and safety buffers.
- Proof of insurance covering third‑party damage (₹5 lakh minimum).
- Coordination with local police and the airport authority if the venue is near an airstrip.
The permit process can take 15‑20 days, so start early if you’re planning a wedding or corporate event. All DJI drones used in a show must have identifiable IDs and be synced with a ground control station to keep the choreography precise.
Remember the basic safety habits: always keep the drone in sight, respect privacy, and avoid flying over crowds. If you follow these steps, you’ll get to capture stunning aerial shots of Mumbai’s skyline, the sea‑front, or a bustling market without any legal hiccups.
Bottom line: a DJI drone can be a powerful creative tool in India, but it works best when you’re licensed, know the airspace, and have the right paperwork for events. Keep the Digital Sky app on your phone, renew your licence on time, and enjoy the freedom to fly safely across the city.
