the Department of Civil Aviation (DCA):

• E-mail address : civil-aviation@govmu.org
• Phone : +230 603-2000
• Website: https://civil-aviation.govmu.org

Documents required for registration include:

• The DCA-RPA application form (available on the DCA website)
• The technical specifications of the drone
• Proof of insurance covering operations in Mauritius
• A pilot certificate recognized by the authority
• ICTA (Information and Communication Technologies Authority) approval for the drone

ICTA Procedure for Drone Approval:

All drones must obtain ICTA approval before use. This procedure applies to the importation of ICT (Information and Communication Technology) equipment.

ICTA contact details:

• Address : 12th Floor, The Celicourt, 6 Sir Celicourt Antelme Street, Port Louis 11302
• Phone : +230 211-5333
• Website: https://www.icta.mu
• Online portal: https://www.icta.mu/applyonline

Since 1 October 2019, all applications for the import of ICT equipment (including drones) must be made only through the ICTA online portal prior to customs clearance.

Documents required for ICTA approval:

• Equipment type approval certificate (if required)
• License authorizing use of the equipment (if appropriate)
• CE Mark test reports can be used in the application process

ICTA costs:

• Application processing fee (non-refundable): 2,000 Mauritian rupees
• Annual license fee: 5,000 Mauritian rupees
• For type authorization/approval: no prescribed fee

Important note: It is strongly recommended to read the “Guidelines for Clearance to Import ICT Equipment” available on the ICTA website before making any request.

Terms of Use and Required Permissions

Professional / Recreational Use Distinction

Mauritian regulations make a clear distinction between two types of use:

Professional Use (Aerial Work): Any aerial work involving the use of drones for commercial or professional operations for remuneration. This includes:

• Professional aerial photography and videography
• Surveying and mapping
• Aerial inspection
• Environmental monitoring

Recreational/Leisure Use: Use of a drone solely for personal pleasure, without commercial purposes.

Obtaining a Professional Use Authorization

1. Aerial Work Permission

This authorization is valid for a period of 3 years and requires:

Documents to provide:

• Completed application form (DCA-RPA – Application Form Version 01-2016) downloadable from the DCA website
• An operational manual in accordance with the model published on the DCA website, referring to Mauritian regulations
• A valid pilot license or certificate recognized by the authority (BNUC™ or BNUC-S™)
• Third party liability insurance coverage, including coverage in Mauritius
• Details of planned flight operations and where and when they will take place
• ICTA approval of the drone

Costs :

• First request: 10,000 Mauritian rupees for 3 years
• Renewal : 10,000 Mauritian rupees for successive periods of 3 years
• Foreign operators (temporary): 6,000 Mauritian rupees per permission

Processing time: The certificate authentication process can take several weeks. It is recommended to apply at least 1 to 2 months before the planned date of operations.

Aerial Work Permission Restrictions: The operator is NOT authorized to fly:

• In Class A, C and G airspace
• In an aerodrome traffic zone
• At an altitude above 400 feet (120 meters)
• Over someone's property without their permission
• Above or within 150 meters of a congested area
• Above a restricted or dangerous area
• Above an organized outdoor gathering of more than 500 people or within 150 meters of such a gathering
• Within 50 meters of any vessel, vehicle or structure not under the control of the person in charge

2. Special Permission

If you need to operate outside the above restrictions, Special Permission is required.

How to get it:

• Submit a formal request by letter or email to civil-aviation@govmu.org
• Include correspondence from the company that contracted you confirming the contract
• Provide a risk assessment detailing flight paths and intended mode of operation
• The DCA examines each request on a case-by-case basis.

Cost : 1,000 Mauritian rupees per location

Validity: Special Permission is valid only for the specific case requested.

Recreational Use: Simplified Rules

For recreational or leisure use, no DCA permission is required, but you must strictly observe the following rules:

Mandatory rules for recreational use:

1. Flight authorized only during the day
2. Flight permitted only on private property with the owner's permission
3. Maximum Altitude: 400 feet (120 meters)
4. STRICTLY no flying over areas where the public may have access, including ALL public beaches
5. No flying near the airport (27 km perimeter)
6. Compliance with the Data Protection Act regarding the protection of privacy
7. The drone must remain within the pilot's line of sight (VLOS)
8. No Flight Beyond Visual Range (BVLOS)

CRUCIAL point on the beaches: Regulation 91C, paragraph 1C clearly states that recreational drones may NOT be flown "over any area to which the public has access." This means that ALL public beaches are PROHIBITED for recreational drone flights. This rule is very strict and frequently misunderstood by tourists.

Important : Even for recreational use, no special permission is required to bring your drone to Mauritius for vacation, but you must strictly adhere to these restrictions.

To obtain authorization to fly a drone in Mauritius for professional or commercial use, several mandatory steps must be taken:

Recognized Certifications:

The Mauritian Civil Aviation Authority recognizes the following certifications as proof of competence:

• BNUC™ (Basic National UAS Certificate – remotely piloted aircraft Certificate)
• BNUC-S™ (Basic National UAS Certificate – Small Unmanned Aircraft)

These certificates must be issued by qualified organizations recognized by the civil aviation authority of the country in which they are located.

Theoretical and Technical Exam: All pilots must pass a theoretical exam covering the rules of the air, aviation safety, and drone-specific regulations. A technical component assesses knowledge of aircraft operation and maintenance.

Practical Training: Practical training supervised by a qualified pilot recognized by the DAC is mandatory. This training covers basic maneuvers, emergency procedures and safe flight techniques.

Authentication Process: Once the certificate is obtained, the DCA proceeds to authenticate the certificate issued by the training organization. This process can take several weeks, so it is recommended to anticipate your request well in advance.

Important note: For recreational or leisure use only, no pilot license is required. The rules are different and less restrictive (see "Recreational Use" section).

Airport Exclusion Zone

One of the most significant restrictions concerns the exclusion zone around Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Airport. A 27-kilometer radius security perimeter around the airport is strictly prohibited for drone flights, except with special paid and duly justified authorization.

Cost of Special Authorization: To obtain an exemption to fly in this restricted area, operators must pay a fee of approximately 10,000 Mauritian rupees for a period of three years.

Technical and Operational Limitations

Altitude and Flight Limits

Maximum Altitude: The altitude ceiling for drone flights is set at 400 feet (approximately 120 meters) above ground level. This limitation ensures separation from commercial air traffic.

Visual Flight: All flights must be within the pilot's direct line of sight (VLOS). Flight beyond visual range requires special permits and additional safety equipment.

Specific Environmental Restrictions

Marine Wildlife Protection

Mauritius imposes particularly strict restrictions regarding marine wildlife. It is strictly forbidden to fly over whales, dolphins, or any other marine mammal at low altitude. This ban aims to protect these sensitive animals from noise pollution and the presence of flying objects that can stress them and disrupt their natural behavior.

Sensitive and Protected Areas

Several areas of the island are considered sensitive and may be subject to specific restrictions:

• Nature reserves and national parks
• Historical and cultural sites
• Government and military installations
• Densely populated areas

Transport and Import of Drones

Aviation Regulations for Transport

The transport of drones to Mauritius must comply with international regulations on the transport of lithium batteries:

Batteries over 160 Wh: If the battery power exceeds 160 Wh, the drone and its spare batteries are prohibited both in the cabin and in the hold.

Batteries of less than 160 Wh: Drones with lower power batteries can generally be transported in the cabin, subject to compliance with airline security procedures.

Customs Formalities

Upon arrival in Mauritius, drone owners must declare their equipment to customs authorities. It is recommended that you bring purchase invoices and technical specifications for the devices to facilitate the formalities.

Historical Evolution of Regulation

From 2016 to 2025: Constant Progress

Drone regulations in Mauritius have existed since 2016, but they have evolved considerably over the years. Mauritian authorities have gradually refined their approach to create a framework that is both safe and favorable to the development of this technology.

The adoption of the Civil Aviation (Unmanned Aircraft System) Regulations 2024 represents the culmination of this evolving approach, integrating international best practices while taking into account the island's local specificities.

Sanctions and Controls

Application of Regulations

Mauritian authorities have strengthened their control and surveillance measures to enforce the new regulations. Violations may result in severe administrative and criminal penalties.

Legal Sanctions

According to Regulation 137 of the Civil Aviation Regulation and the Civil Aviation Act:

A person who commits an offence against drone regulations is liable, upon conviction, to:

• Fine of up to 100,000,000 Mauritian rupees
• Imprisonment of up to 12 months

These particularly severe sanctions demonstrate the importance attached by the Mauritian authorities to air safety and compliance with regulations.

Types of Offenses

Offenses include:

• Unauthorized flight for commercial use
• Failure to comply with exclusion zones
• Exceeding authorized altitudes
• Flight over prohibited areas (public beaches, airport, congested areas)
• Lack of insurance
• Failure to comply with the restrictions of the authorization obtained
• Night flight for recreational use
• Lack of valid pilot certificate for professional use

Operators' Responsibility

Drone pilots and owners are fully responsible for complying with regulations. They must ensure that their activities do not compromise aviation safety, do not invade privacy, and respect the environment.

Practical Tools and Resources

Apps and Maps to Identify No-Traffic Areas

Recommended applications:

Although there is no dedicated official Mauritian app, several international tools can help you:

• UAV Forecast : Weather and flight conditions application
• AirMap : Mapping of restricted areas
• DJI Geofence System : For DJI drones, integrated geo-fencing system

IMPORTANT : These international apps may contain information about Mauritius, but they are NOT official. ALWAYS check with local sources (DCA) to confirm restrictions.

Official Sources:

• AIP Mauritius (Aeronautical Information Publication) : Official publication that includes maps of controlled airspace and restricted areas. The new regulations mention AIP-based geo-awareness data.
• DCA website : https://civil-aviation.govmu.org for regulatory updates
• Direct contact with the DCA : If in doubt, always contact the DCA before flying

Geofence function:

If your drone has a geofence feature, do NOT disable it without a very good reason and proper permission. This feature is designed for your safety and the safety of others.

Flight Planning: Essential Checklist

Before each flight:

1. ✅ Check weather conditions (wind, rain, visibility)
2. ✅ Confirm that the area is authorized (no public beach, no congested area)
3. ✅ Make sure you have permission from the owner if it is private property
4. ✅ Check the battery charge status
5. ✅ Confirm that the insurance is valid
6. ✅ Check the distance from the airport (minimum 27 km)
7. ✅ Make sure you have all the required documents (for professional use)
8. ✅ Plan the flight to stay below 400 feet (120 meters)
9. ✅ Identify an emergency return point
10. ✅ Inform people nearby if necessary

Technological Integration

Mauritius is moving towards ever-increasing integration of drone technology into its economic and tourism ecosystem, while maintaining the highest standards of safety and environmental friendliness.

Sector Development

These new regulations aim to create an environment conducive to the development of the drone sector, whether for tourism, commercial, scientific or public safety applications.

Summary of Costs and Timeframes

For PROFESSIONAL use:

Permission Type	Cost	Validity	Processing time
ICTA Approval (First Application)	2,000 RS + 5,000 RS/year	Annual	2-3 weeks
Aerial Work Permission	10,000 RS	3 years	4-8 weeks
Aerial Work Renewal	10,000 RS	3 years	2-4 weeks
Special Permission	1,000 RS per rental	Case by case	1-3 weeks
Temporary foreign operator	6,000 RS	Duration of operations	4-8 weeks

TOTAL COST for a resident professional operator:

• First year: Around 17,000 RS (ICTA + DCA)
• Following years: 5,000 RS/year (annual ICTA license)
• After 3 years: 10,000 RS (DCA permission renewal) + 5,000 RS (ICTA)

For RECREATIONAL use:

• Cost : 0 RS (no fees)
• Deadline : None (no permission required)
• Insurance : Mandatory but at your expense

Significant delays to be expected:

⏱️ Pilot Certificate Authentication: May take several weeks. The DCA must authenticate the certificate issued by the training organization.

⏱️ TOTAL for first professional application: To expect minimum 2-3 months before the planned date of operations to ensure that you have all the necessary authorizations.

Tips to speed up the process:

• Submit a complete file upon first request
• Ensure that all documents comply with the templates provided
• Use the ICTA online portal (mandatory since October 2019)
• Contact the DCA if you have any questions before submitting the file

Before the Trip

• Check the specifications of your drone and its batteries
• Contact your airline for their specific policies
• Prepare the necessary documents (invoices, technical specifications)

On Site

• Complete the mandatory check-in upon arrival
• Strictly respect the exclusion zones
• Stay informed about weather conditions and temporary restrictions
• Favor early morning or late afternoon flights to avoid strong winds

Best Practices

• Respect the privacy of people and property
• Avoid flying over groups of people
• Always maintain visual contact with your drone
• Have suitable liability insurance

Official Contacts and Resources

Department of Civil Aviation (DCA)

Full contact details:

• Address : Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, Plaine Magnien, Mauritius
• Email: civil-aviation@govmu.org
• Phone : +230 603-2000
• Website: https://civil-aviation.govmu.org
• Schedules : Monday to Friday, 9:00am-4:00pm (check website for holidays)

Documents available for download on the site:

• DCA-RPA Application Form Version 01-2016
• Operational Manual Template
• Drone FAQ (Last updated: August 2024)
• Mauritius Civil Aviation Regulations
• Information Notice to RPA Operators

Information and Communication Technologies Authority (ICTA)

Full contact details:

• Address : 12th Floor, The Celicourt, 6 Sir Celicourt Antelme Street, Port Louis 11302, Mauritius
• Phone : +230 211-5333
• Website: https://www.icta.mu
• Online portal (MANDATORY): https://www.icta.mu/applyonline
• Email: Available on the website depending on the department

Important documents on the site:

• Guidelines for Clearance to Import ICT Equipment
• List of approved equipment
• Type approval procedures

Other Useful Contacts

Mauritian Coast Guard (for maritime incidents):

• Emergency telephone: +230 212-3894

Ministry of Tourism (for general questions):

• Website: https://tourism.govmu.org

Environmental Police (for environmental offenses):

• Phone : +230 208-2051

Online Resources

Official regulations:

• Civil Aviation (Amendment) Regulations 2016 – Regulation 91, 91A, 91B, 91C
• Civil Aviation (Unmanned Aircraft System) Regulations 2024
• Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP) Mauritius

Useful apps (unofficial but useful):

• UAV Forecast – Weather Conditions
• AirMap – Restricted Area Mapping
• DJI Fly App – For DJI drones with geofencing

Recognized Training Organizations

To obtain BNUC™ or BNUC-S™ certificates, contact:

• Organizations recognized in your country by the local civil aviation authority
• The DCA can provide a list of recognized organizations upon request.

Important check: Make sure that the training organization is recognized by the civil aviation authority of the country where it is located, otherwise your certificate will not be accepted in Mauritius.

Conclusion

The 2025 drone regulations in Mauritius reflect the authorities' desire to create a modern and secure framework for the use of this technology. Although stricter than before, these regulations provide a clear and predictable framework for all users, whether residents or visitors.

Compliance with these rules is essential not only for legal reasons, but also to preserve the island's natural beauty and ensure everyone's safety. As a responsible user, everyone contributes to the sustainable development of this fascinating technology in the unique context of Mauritius.

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This article was written in October 2025 based on the most recent regulations. As regulations may change, it is recommended to check the latest provisions with the Mauritian Civil Aviation Authority before any flight.