Bring a drone on your liveaboard if you want — just don't assume you can fly it wherever you land.

Indonesia regulates drones more strictly than most divers expect, and the rules apply on top of, not instead of, whatever your liveaboard operator allows on board. This page covers the basics for a diver planning to bring a drone on an Indonesia trip. For the broader trip-planning picture, see our Indonesia liveaboard guide.

This isn't a full legal guide — the specifics change often enough that we'd rather point you to where to check than risk giving you a stale number.

Quick Facts

• Registration: drones generally need to be registered with Indonesia's civil aviation authority (DGCA), even for short tourist visits
• National parks: most require a separate permit on top of national registration — Komodo National Park is a common example
• Batteries: Batteries: carry-on only on flights, never in checked luggage — see our packing guide for other liveaboard gear rules
• Wildlife: keep well clear of marine life, and never fly directly over people
• Enforcement: tourists have had drones confiscated, and in some cases been deported, for flying without the right permits
• Bali: has its own additional local registration step on top of the national rules

Quick Answers

Can I fly my drone in Indonesia as a tourist?

Generally yes, but it's regulated, not unrestricted. You'll likely need to register the drone nationally before you fly, and some areas — national parks especially — require a separate local permit on top of that.

Do I need a permit to fly a drone in Komodo National Park?

Very likely yes. Indonesia's national parks are commonly treated as restricted airspace for drones, with permits handled by the park authority rather than the national aviation regulator alone. Check directly with the park before you go, ideally through your liveaboard operator — see our Komodo guide for the rest of what to plan around.

Will I need a permit to fly a drone in Raja Ampat?

Not yet formally, but that's expected to change — Raja Ampat authorities are working on legislation that will require a special drone permit, similar to Komodo's park-level system. Check current requirements close to your travel dates, since this could be in effect by the time you go.

Can I bring drone batteries on a domestic flight?

Yes, but only in carry-on luggage, never checked — this is a standard airline lithium battery rule, not specific to drones.

Check Before You Go

Drone rules in Indonesia sit across more than one authority — national aviation regulation, plus park-level permits for protected areas — and both have changed in recent years. Rather than rely on a blog post that might be out of date by the time you travel, check current requirements directly through Indonesia's official drone registration portal, SIDOPI-GO, and confirm with your liveaboard operator whether your specific route includes a national park or other restricted area.

Managing Expectations

Give yourself time before the trip — permit processes aren't always fast, and some require documents submitted in advance. Don't expect onboard wifi to be reliable enough to sort this out mid-trip; handle it before you leave. Some crews also restrict drone use around dive briefings, tenders, or wildlife encounters for safety reasons, separate from any government permit — ask what's allowed on your specific boat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my liveaboard operator handle drone permits for me?

Some will help or point you in the right direction, but don't assume it's automatic. Ask before booking if this matters to you.

What happens if I fly a drone without the right permit in Indonesia?

Consequences reported by other travelers range from a warning to confiscation of the drone, and in some cases deportation. It's not a risk worth taking for a few extra clips.

Are drones allowed around marine life like manta rays or whale sharks?

Treat protected marine life the same way you would underwater — see our big animal guide for the distance and behavior guidelines that apply to manta rays, whale sharks, and other species. Don't fly directly over them or use a drone to chase or herd wildlife for a shot.

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