Aruba Drone Laws: Flight Permits & Best Practices

It is legal to fly a drone in Aruba. However, the island regulates drone use to keep its skies safe and protect public privacy. With Queen Beatrix Airport close to many beaches and resorts, even a small drone can pose a risk to aircraft.

Crowded tourist areas also make flying over people dangerous and illegal. On top of that, drones with cameras raise privacy concerns around homes, hotels, and beaches.

To stay in line with international aviation standards, Aruba enforces rules similar to those in the U.S. and Europe.

In short: A step-by-step guide on how to fly legally in Aruba

• Get a local SIM card or phone so you can provide an Aruba contact number.
• Email your flight request to the DCAA at least one business day in advance.
• Wait for approval and keep a copy with you during your flight.
• Do a full pre-flight check and follow all safety rules.
• Use a spotter if flying FPV.
• Fly within the approved time, location, and altitude.
• Pack your gear safely when done, especially batteries for travel.

Who needs a drone permit in Aruba

Everyone — tourists and locals alike — needs permission from the Aruba Department of Civil Aviation (DCAA) before flying a drone. This applies to recreational, commercial, and even government use.

There’s no separate permit type for tourists; all flights require a request with detailed info about when, where, and why you’re flying. No registration is needed for now, but that could change in the future.

DCAA contact information in 2025

• Contact person: Willem Vrolijk / Anthony Kirchner
• Email: willem.vrolijk@dca.gov.aw / anthony.kirchner@dca.gov.aw
• Phone number: (+297) 523-2665 ext. 677 / (+297) 5232665 ext. 672
• For general inquiries: (+297) 523 2665 / dca@dca.gov.aw

Feel free to send them an email if you have further questions. Unfortunately, the official website does not work or has any useful information as of August 2025.

How to get drone flight approval in Aruba

To fly legally, email the DCAA at least one business day before your flight with the following:

• Your full name
• Drone make and model
• Purpose of the flight (e.g. personal, commercial)
• Date and time of the flight
• Exact flight location
• Maximum altitude
• A local Aruba phone number (you can get a SIM card from SETAR or Digicel)

Important:

• Send the request to the DCAA by email
• Keep the approval email with you while flying—digital or printed

General drone rules in Aruba in 2025

• Maximum altitude: 200 feet (unless approved for more)
• Always keep the drone in visual line of sight (VLOS)
• FPV flying is only allowed with a trained spotter
• Stay at least 4 km (2.5 miles) away from airports
• Do not fly over people, vehicles, or private property
• No flying at night or in poor weather
• Use only 2.4 GHz or 5.8 GHz frequencies
• No flying under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Follow all safety checks and manufacturer guidelines before each flight

Insurance and liability

Drone insurance isn’t required by law in Aruba in 2025, but it’s strongly recommended. If your drone causes injury, damages property, or violates someone’s privacy, you’re personally responsible. That includes fines, lawsuits, or covering repair costs. Commercial operators should carry liability coverage at minimum.

Drone registration and remote ID

Right now, Aruba does not require drone registration or remote ID. However, this could change as drone regulations evolve. The DCAA has hinted at tighter controls in the future, so it’s smart to stay updated — especially if you’re a frequent flyer or returning visitor.

Bringing a drone to Aruba

You’re allowed to bring a drone into Aruba, but pack it properly:

• Carry your drone and batteries in your carry-on luggage, not checked bags.
• Batteries must be stored in fireproof LiPo-safe bags and kept within airline watt-hour limits — usually two spare batteries are allowed.

Check your airline’s policy before flying, as rules may vary.

Best places to fly a drone in Aruba

Aruba has plenty of scenic spots that are great for drone footage, as long as you have permission.

• Eagle Beach – Wide open space, great lighting, and iconic fofoti trees
• Arashi Beach – Clear water, rocky coastline, and lighthouse views
• California Lighthouse – Popular landmark with panoramic views
• Baby Beach – Shallow turquoise waters and fewer crowds
• Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins – Rugged, historic setting
• Ayo and Casibari Rock Formations – Unique natural features

Note: Arikok National Park and some resort properties may require additional permission. Always check before flying.

To obtain permission to fly in Arikok National Park, you can contact Mr. Tyson Lopez by email at t.lopez@arubanationalpark.org / info@acf.aw or by phone at +297-585-1234. If the Aruba Conservation Foundation grants approval, you will also need to seek authorization from the DCAA.

Prohibited places to fly a drone in Aruba

No‑fly areas & situational prohibitions

• Within ~4 km (2.5 miles) of the airport — any drone operations near Reina Beatrix International Airport require special authorization from the DCAA and ATC.
• Arikok National Park — strictly no recreational drone use; only possible with explicit park permission for non‑personal purposes.
• Fauna & marine reserves — operating near protected areas (like Marine Park Aruba) may trigger warnings on drone systems (e.g., DJI GEO) and require authorization.

Situations where drone use is disallowed

• Over crowds or groups — including beaches, stadiums, and public events.
• Near emergency response scenes — such as fires or accidents.
• At night, or during bad weather/low visibility conditions.
• Over private property without the owner’s written permission.
• Close to aircraft in flight, or airports.

Important: Watch out for strong beach winds!

Aruba's beaches are beautiful, but windy. Constant trade winds blow from the east, and gusts near the shore can easily overpower small drones like the DJI Mini series. Many drones have been lost over the ocean this way. Always check wind direction and speed before flying, especially if you're near the coast. 

What to do if your drone has drifted out to sea and cannot return?

If your drone starts drifting out to sea, stay calm. Try to lower your altitude — winds are usually weaker closer to the sea level.

You can also try flying perpendicular to the wind direction (at a 90° angle). This gives you a better chance of breaking out of strong headwinds or escaping a wind tunnel effect.