Flying a drone in Turkey - current regulations, registration and prohibited zones

In this article, we take a look at the most important rules for flying a drone in Turkey - for both tourists and operators from EASA member countries. We hint at when registration is required, where flight bans apply, and what Turkey's drone law looks like.

Flying a drone in Turkey - basic information

Flying a drone in Turkey requires familiarization with both national and EU regulations if the operator is from one of the EASA member states. The Turkish legal system with regard to unmanned aerial vehicles is based on national legislation, however, is partially harmonized with the European model of drone classification. There is a system of permits, spatial restrictions and registration procedures, knowledge of which is necessary to avoid violations of the law and potential sanctions.

Can you fly a drone in Turkey?

Yes, you can fly a drone in Turkey, but subject to compliance with local regulations and obtaining required permits. Turkish Civil Aviation Authority (SHGM - Sivil Havacılık Genel Müdürlüğü) supervises all drone operations, regardless of whether the flight is recreational or commercial in nature. In practice, this means the need to register the operator and the device in advance, and in many cases to obtain special permission for a particular flight - especially if it takes place in urban areas, near airports, military zones or facilities considered strategic.

Which drones are subject to registration in Turkey?

Registration requirement in Turkey applies to drones with a takeoff weight of more than 500g. Equipment below this weight can be used without registration, but only for recreational purposes, subject to all space restrictions and safety rules.

Drones over 500 g require:

• registration of the operator in the SHGM system,
  
• device submissions with a serial number,
  
• obtain a flight permit if the planned area is in a controlled zone.

Drone with camera in some cases, it may be considered image recording equipment, with additional requirements related to privacy and data protection. A drone that is not declared in advance may be detained by customs at the airport, and its owner may be returned to the country or fined.

Where not to fly a drone in Turkey?

The drone flight ban applies primarily near military facilities, critical infrastructure and areas banned for national security reasons. It is also forbidden to film or photograph military units, state administration buildings and the presidential residence. It is prohibited to fly over airports and their controlled zones, as well as over gatherings of people, public gatherings, protests and mass events.

Additional restrictions apply to many archaeological sites, national parks and heritage sites. In practice, this means that each time the location of the planned flight must be checked in the context of the applicable prohibited zones. Turkish regulations also require approval if the flight is to take place within the city or in its immediate vicinity.

Does a drone need to be insured?

Third party insurance for drones recreational vehicles weighing less than 500 grams is not mandatory, however, for heavier equipment - especially those used for commercial purposes - insurance is required. The SHGM may require the production of a policy in the event of an inspection, and the lack of adequate insurance is grounds for denial of permission to fly or for imposing sanctions.

In practice, third-party liability (civil liability) insurance is recommended for any operator, regardless of the nature of the flight. Even a minor collision can cause damage costing more than the value of the equipment, and the operator's liability also covers potential injury to third parties.

What are the penalties for violations?

If you care about flying a drone abroad, then in Turkey as much as possible you can do it, but remember to follow the rules. Otherwise you risk very severe consequences.

The most common violations are:

• no operator registration,
• flying without permission in prohibited areas,
• violation of third party privacy
• use of a high mass device without adequate insurance.

Depending on the nature of the offense, the operator may be fined from several hundred to even tens of thousands of Turkish Liras. In the case of serious violations, such as filming military facilities or flying near airports without permission, criminal prosecution is also possible. Police or gendarmerie have the right to confiscate the drone pending investigation.

Where to check air zones in Turkey?

The official source of airspace information in Turkey is the website managed by the SHGM, available in Turkish. The platform allows you to verify current prohibited, restricted and controlled zones, as well as to apply for permission to fly.

The system is mainly designed for those with a Turkish identification number, which can be a handicap for foreigners. In such cases, it is recommended to use local operators or companies specializing in commercial flights.

Summary

Flying a drone in Turkey is as possible, but requires a good understanding of local regulations. Knowing the rules of registration, space restrictions, and procedures for insurance or obtaining permission is the key to safe and legal flights.

Before each flight, take a moment to check the current guidelines and make sure everything is in compliance with the requirements of the Turkish Civil Aviation Authority.