The use of drones for aerial photography is constantly growing, both for amateur and professional purposes.
Fuerteventura, with its breathtaking landscapes and pristine beaches, is an ideal destination for enthusiasts.
However, to fly safely and legally, it is essential to know the regulations and follow the procedures provided.
What you need to fly with a drone in Fuerteventura
Required documentation:
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UAV A1-A3 or A2 Pilot Certificate – obtainable online or in person at authorized bodies
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Drone QR code – go to the table at the bottom of the article to access your nation’s official portal to register the drone and get the QR CODE.
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Third party insurance – with an appropriate ceiling, compulsory
Where and when you can fly
The entire island of Fuerteventura is considered a protected area, so it is often necessary to apply for a permit to fly.
Types of zones:
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Grey areas: free flight, in compliance with the altitude limit (120 m) and the regulations
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Red zones: flight prohibited
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Green zones: Flights allowed only with prior permission from the Cabildo
To identify the areas, it is advisable to consult the ENAIRE map:
The restrictions are geographical, not temporal: the red zones are always prohibited, the gray areas are always free and the green areas are always subject to permission.
How to apply for permission
The request must be submitted in person at the offices of the Cabildo de Fuerteventura in Puerto del Rosario, on Calle Primero de Mayo or Calle Lucha Canaria.
Steps for request:
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Fill in the “Modelo de Instancia General” – available on the Cabildo website
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Book a delivery appointment:
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Documents to be attached:
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Identity document
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NIE (if available)
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Driver’s license
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Drone QR-code
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Liability insurance
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Please indicate in your application:
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Your data
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Estimated flight dates
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The areas required
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Response time: up to 1 month
Cost of the procedure: free
Regulatory updates (RD 517/2024)
With the entry into force of Royal Decree 517/2024, there are important news for those who fly drones in the open category.
Drones with the class C0 mark (weighing less than 250 g and without advanced sensors) no longer require a license or registration, and liability insurance is not mandatory for recreational use, although it remains strongly recommended. In addition, to fly in urban or inhabited areas, it is necessary to notify the Interior Ministry of the flight in advance.
The official source for checking where and how you can fly is the Enaire Drones portal, which offers up-to-date interactive maps and directions for each area.
Useful Tips
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Always check the weather conditions before your flight
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Avoid airports, military zones, population centers and protected areas
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Respect privacy: do not fly over people or private property without permission
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Flying safely and responsibly
Author’s contacts
Alessandro Germano
Site: www.alessandrogermano.it
