Yes, drones can be flown in the Falkland Islands, but they are regulated aircraft—not casual camera toys. As of the July 2026 Civil Aviation guidance, drone operators must contact the air traffic units at both Stanley Airport and Mount Pleasant Airport before launching. Other aviation separation rules, landowner permission and wildlife/environmental requirements may also apply.
The July 2026 ATS requirement
The Falkland Islands Civil Aviation Department states that SUA/drone pilots and operators must call the air traffic units at Mount Pleasant and Stanley airports before launching. This had previously been a recommendation but was made a direction after repeated failures to notify air traffic services. Use the current Civil Aviation contact details immediately before your flight.
Basic separation rules
Current government guidance says drones should not be flown within 150 feet of people, vehicles, vessels or buildings and must not be flown within airport or airfield boundaries. Additional restrictions or formal permission from the Director of Civil Aviation may apply depending on the operation.
Private land
Much of the Falklands is privately owned. Government visitor guidance states that you need the landowner’s permission to use a drone over private land. Do not assume that public access to a wildlife site automatically includes permission for aerial filming.
Wildlife and environmental restrictions
Drone noise and approach can disturb breeding wildlife. Government guidance notes that you may need to inform the Environmental Department when filming wildlife. Follow the current drone-and-wildlife guidance and any site-specific restrictions; if a flight risks disturbing animals, do not fly.
Do you need a formal permission?
Some operations require Permission from the Director of Civil Aviation. The Civil Aviation Department publishes a current information sheet and application form, including applicable charges. Because aviation rules can change, use those current documents rather than an old travel blog or forum post.
Practical pre-flight checklist
- Read the current Falkland Islands Civil Aviation drone information sheet.
- Determine whether formal aviation permission is required.
- Obtain landowner permission where applicable.
- Check wildlife/environmental restrictions.
- Contact both Stanley and Mount Pleasant ATS before launch.
- Assess wind, visibility, people, vessels, buildings and nearby aviation activity.
- Do not launch if you cannot meet every requirement safely.
