⚠️ Safety Alert

Flying drones near Arenal Airport without proper authorization poses serious safety risks to aircraft and is illegal under Costa Rican law. Unauthorized drone operations can result in fines and criminal penalties.

Drone Regulations in Costa Rica

In Costa Rica, drones (also known as Unmanned Aircraft Systems or UAS) are regulated by the Dirección General de Aviación Civil (DGAC). All drone operations near airports must comply with both national regulations and specific airport requirements.

Drone Safety Zones

No-Fly Zones

  • Primary Restriction Zone: No drone operations are permitted within 8 kilometers (5 miles) of Arenal Airport without specific DGAC authorization and coordination with Arenal Airport Authority.
  • Secondary Restriction Zone: Drone operations between 8-12 kilometers (5-7.5 miles) from the airport require notification to Arenal Airport at least 24 hours in advance.
  • Height Restrictions: Even outside the restriction zones, drones may not be flown higher than 120 meters (400 feet) above ground level without special authorization.

Drone Operating Requirements

Registration Icon

Registration

All drones weighing more than 250 grams must be registered with the DGAC. A registration number must be visibly displayed on the drone.

Registration Process
Pilot Certification Icon

Pilot Certification

Operators must have a valid drone pilot certificate for commercial operations. Recreational users must follow all regulations and guidelines.

Certification Requirements
Insurance Icon

Insurance

Liability insurance is required for all commercial drone operations. Coverage must meet DGAC minimum requirements.

Insurance Guidelines
Flight Permission Icon

Flight Permission

Authorization is required for flights near airports, over populated areas, or for commercial purposes.

Permission Process

Authorization Application Process

1

Submit Application

Complete the DGAC Drone Operation Authorization Form and submit it at least 15 business days before planned operations.

  • Completed application form
  • Drone registration certificate
  • Pilot certification (if applicable)
  • Proof of insurance
  • Detailed flight plan and risk assessment
2

Airport Coordination

If your operation will be within 12 kilometers of Arenal Airport, you must also submit your flight plan to the Arenal Airport Authority.

Email: drones@arenal-airport.com
Phone: +506 2479 9075

3

Review and Approval

DGAC will review your application and may request additional information. Approval is not guaranteed and depends on safety considerations.

4

Receive Authorization

If approved, you will receive a written authorization specifying the permitted flight area, altitude restrictions, and valid dates and times.

5

Pre-Flight Notification

Contact Arenal Airport Operations at least 2 hours before your flight to confirm your operation.

Application Forms and Documents

Drone Safety Tips

01

Always Maintain Visual Line of Sight

Keep your drone within visual line of sight at all times. This allows you to see and avoid other aircraft and obstacles.

02

Check Weather Conditions

Avoid flying in strong winds, rain, or foggy conditions that can affect your drone's performance and visibility.

03

Respect Privacy

Do not fly over private property without permission or use your drone to photograph people without their consent.

04

Report Incidents

Report any incidents, accidents, or near-misses involving your drone to the DGAC within 24 hours.

05

Pre-Flight Inspection

Always check your drone's battery, propellers, and control systems before flying.

06

Give Way to Aircraft

If you see or hear an aircraft approaching, immediately land your drone and wait until the aircraft has passed.

Penalties for Unauthorized Drone Use

Operating a drone in restricted airspace without authorization can result in severe penalties under Costa Rican law:

Financial Penalties

Fines ranging from $500 to $25,000 USD depending on the severity of the violation and whether it caused a safety hazard.

Equipment Confiscation

Authorities may confiscate your drone and related equipment if operated illegally.

Criminal Charges

Serious violations that endanger aircraft may result in criminal charges under aviation safety laws.

Legal Liability

Drone operators are legally responsible for any damages or injuries caused by their drones.

Contact Information

For questions about drone operations near Arenal Airport, please contact:

Arenal Airport Drone Operations

Phone: +506 2479 9075

Email: drones@arenal-airport.com

DGAC Drone Regulation Office

Phone: +506 2242 8000

Email: drones@dgac.go.cr

Website: www.dgac.go.cr