Yes, it is legal to fly a drone in Mexico. The Federal Civil Aviation Agency (FCAA) is Mexico’s national aviation authority and its regulations do allow drone activity in the country. However, if you are not a Mexican national, you are not allowed to bring a drone into the country or fly it.
Hello, fellow drone enthusiasts! My name is Lavelle and I am a drone pilot and long-time enthusiast. I have flown my drones in many different environments and I have reviewed the regulations in Mexico.
In this article, I will provide details about the Mexican regulations for flying drones. I will also address the prohibitions regarding non-Mexican citizens bringing drones into the country.
Contents
Key Takeaways
- Mexico allows drone flying only for Mexican citizens.
- Non-Mexican citizens should not attempt to bring a drone into the country
- There are civil penalties and legal ramifications for trying to smuggle a drone into the country.
Can You Fly a Drone In Mexico
If you are not a Mexican citizen, the FCAA does not have a provision that allows foreigners to fly drones.
The research I’ve done does not show any way to get around this restriction. As of the time of this article, I could not find any way to rent a drone and fly it in the country.
Foreigners are allowed to buy drones in Mexico, but I am not able to find a way to register the drone as a foreigner.
It is recommended that non-Mexican citizens do not attempt to bring a drone into the country. The US TSA will not allow a drone to be checked in when traveling to Mexico.
Should you attempt to bring a drone in without being caught, the consequences could be severe, including but not limited to fines and arrest.
Rules to Fly a Drone in Mexico
Some of the basic rules for flying a drone in Mexico are as follows:
Mexican FCAA regulations, similar to the US FAA regulations, require drones to be registered if it weighs more than 250 grams. Additionally, the FCAA requires that drones are flown over people, within 400 feet of the ground.
Drones should not be flown at night or near airports and not near animals or historical sites.
Commercial drone operators are also allowed for Mexican citizens. To get a UAV license to fly a drone for commercial purposes in Mexico, you must be at least 18 years of age, have at least a high school diploma, and be a Mexican citizen.
Commercial users can apply for a license through the Gobierno de México here.
FAQs
Here are some answers to a few of the frequently asked questions about bringing a drone into Mexico.
Can You Bring a Drone to Mexico?
Yes, if you are a Mexican citizen. Non-Mexican citizens are allowed to bring or fly drones in the country.
Can You Fly Drones in Mexico Resorts?
Yes, you can fly drones in Mexican resorts if you are a Mexican citizen and obtain permission from the resort officials.
Do You Need a Drone License in Mexico?
You do not need a drone license to fly recreational drones in Mexico. Your drone has to be registered with the Mexican authority.
Final Thoughts
Mexico is a beautiful country and does allow drones to be operated within its boundaries. However, only Mexican citizens are allowed to bring drones into the country. Both recreational and commercial drone activities are allowed in the country.
Have you ever flown a drone in Mexico? What was your experience? Share your tips in the comments below.
