Guide to Flying a Drone in Hong Kong as a Tourist

Flying a drone in Hong Kong as a tourist can be an exciting way to capture stunning aerial views of the city’s skyline, Victoria Harbour, and lush landscapes. However, Hong Kong has strict regulations governing drone use to ensure safety and compliance with aviation laws. This guide outlines the key rules, requirements, and tips for safely operating a drone in Hong Kong as a tourist.

1. Understand Hong Kong’s Drone Regulations

Hong Kong’s drone operations are regulated by the Civil Aviation Department (CAD) under the Hong Kong Civil Aviation (Aircraft) Regulations. Key rules include:

• Weight Categories:

  • Drones weighing 250g or less (Category A1) are considered low risk and face fewer restrictions.

  • Drones weighing more than 250g but not exceeding 7kg (Category A2) require additional compliance, such as registration and labeling.

  • Drones over 7kg require special permission from the CAD.

• No-Fly Zones:

  • Drones are prohibited within 5km of any airport or airfield, including Hong Kong International Airport and Shek Kong Airfield.

  • Restricted areas include Victoria Harbour, government buildings, military zones, and densely populated urban areas like Central, Causeway Bay, and Tsim Sha Tsui.

  • Check the CAD’s Aeronautical Information Service or apps like DroneMate for updated no-fly zone maps.

• Flight Restrictions:

  • Maximum altitude: 90 meters (300 feet) above ground level.

  • Drones must remain within visual line of sight (VLOS) at all times.

  • Flying over people, crowds, or private property without permission is prohibited.

  • Night flying (between sunset and sunrise) is not allowed without special approval.

• Commercial vs. Recreational Use:

  • Recreational drone use (e.g., for personal photos/videos) does not require a permit for drones under 7kg.

  • Commercial use (e.g., selling footage) requires CAD approval, regardless of drone weight.

2. Register and Label Your Drone (if applicable)

• For drones weighing more than 250g but not exceeding 7kg:

  • Register your drone with the CAD through their online registration system (available on the CAD website).

  • Affix a registration label to your drone with the assigned registration number.

• Drones 250g or less do not require registration but must still comply with operational rules.

• As a tourist, you may need to provide your passport details during registration.

3. Obtain Necessary Permissions

• If you plan to fly in areas requiring special permission (e.g., near restricted zones or for commercial purposes), submit an application to the CAD at least 14 working days in advance.

• Provide details such as flight location, date, time, and purpose, along with your drone’s specifications.

• Contact the CAD via email (cad_drone@cad.gov.hk) for guidance.

4. Choose Safe and Legal Flying Locations

Hong Kong’s dense urban environment limits safe flying spots, but there are tourist-friendly locations where drone use is generally permitted (subject to local rules):

• Sai Kung: Rural areas like Sai Kung Country Park offer open spaces with scenic views of beaches and mountains. Avoid flying over crowds or protected wildlife areas.

• Lantau Island: Areas like Mui Wo or Tai O provide open spaces, but avoid flying near the airport or Big Buddha.

• Outlying Islands: Lamma Island or Cheung Chau have fewer restrictions but check for local signage prohibiting drones.

• Victoria Peak: Flying is generally restricted due to crowds and proximity to urban areas, but you may capture footage from designated viewpoints with caution.

Always check for “No Drone” signs and respect private property or conservation areas.

5. Follow Safety Guidelines

• Pre-Flight Checks:

  • Ensure your drone’s battery is charged and propellers are in good condition.

  • Check weather conditions; avoid flying in strong winds or rain.

  • Calibrate your drone’s compass and GPS in an open area.

• During Flight:

  • Keep your drone within 500 meters of your location and maintain visual contact.

  • Avoid flying over roads, vehicles, or people to prevent accidents.

  • Use drone apps (e.g., DJI FlySafe or Hover) to monitor restricted zones in real-time.

• Respect Privacy: Do not capture footage of individuals or private property without consent.

6. Understand Insurance and Liability

• Drone accidents causing injury or property damage can result in legal consequences.

• Consider purchasing drone liability insurance, especially for drones over 250g, to cover potential damages.

• As a tourist, ensure your travel insurance covers drone-related activities, as some policies exclude them.

7. Tips for Tourists

• Bring Documentation: Carry your drone registration (if applicable), passport, and any CAD permits when flying.

• Language Barrier: Most signage and regulations are in English and Chinese. Use translation apps if needed to understand local rules.

• Local Advice: Check with local drone communities (e.g., Hong Kong Drone Club on social media) for up-to-date tips and recommended flying spots.

• Respect Culture: Hong Kong is a crowded city with privacy concerns. Be courteous and avoid flying in busy public spaces like markets or temples.

8. Penalties for Non-Compliance

Violating drone regulations can lead to:

• Fines up to HKD 50,000 and/or imprisonment for up to 2 years for serious offenses (e.g., flying in restricted airspace).

• Confiscation of your drone by authorities.

• Always prioritize compliance to avoid legal issues that could disrupt your trip.

9. Recommended Drones for Tourists

• DJI Mini 4 Pro or DJI Mini 3 (under 250g): Ideal for tourists due to minimal registration requirements and portability.

• DJI Mavic Air 2 (under 7kg): Suitable for advanced users but requires registration and labeling.

• Ensure your drone complies with Hong Kong’s technical standards (e.g., no unauthorized radio frequencies).

10. Additional Resources

• Civil Aviation Department Website: www.cad.gov.hk for regulations, registration, and permit applications.

• Drone Apps: Use B4UFly, DroneMate, or DJI FlySafe for real-time airspace information.

• Tourist Information: Visit the Hong Kong Tourism Board website or counters for local advice.

By following these guidelines, you can safely and legally enjoy flying your drone in Hong Kong while capturing breathtaking footage of this vibrant city. Always stay informed, fly responsibly, and respect local laws to ensure a hassle-free experience.