DRONE PHOTOGRAPHY ON LOFOTEN

Norway uses the common European drone regulations which came into effect January 1, 2021. As a general rule, this means that all (camera) drone pilots must be licensed to fly within Norway/EU.

For more information and to begin the registration process, visit the Norwegian Civil Aviation Authority’s website at:

https://luftfartstilsynet.no/en/drones

If you are bringing your drone to Lofoten, it is your responsibility to fly in a legal and respectful way.

The increasing use of drones is also increasing tension with locals, which, at times, may be directly confrontational. This is particularly severe in the Reine area, where it can sometimes be a near constant buzz of drones in the sky; with many flying too close to houses and people.

Particularly problematic illegal areas on Lofoten are flying within Svolvær, which is inside the 5km airport zone. Another area is Skreda, west of Leknes, which is also within the 5km airport zone. Ongoing tunnel construction here means delays of up to one hour, and unfortunately, people use this time to fly their drones illegally within the airport zone.

Locals are quick to call the police on any drone seen too close to the airports. Enforcement of illegal flying occurs on a regular basis on Lofoten: drones are confiscated on the spot, fines of up to 12,000 NOK are issued, and in some cases pilots have been deported and banned from Norway/Schengen area.

From the Norwegian Civil Aviation Authority – Luftfartstilsynet – The following regulations apply to flying drones in Norway:

Airports

Never fly closer than 5 km to any airport.

For Lofoten – This means that both Svolvær and Leknes cities are off limits to drone flying, due to the proximity of the airports.

Elevation

Maximum flying height it 120 meter above the ground. You should always maintain visibility of your drone.

For Lofoten – Tthis means sitting in the parking lot in at Reinehalsen and flying your drone over Reinebringen (448m) is not allowed.

Distance

Keep a horizontal distance of 150 meters from people, buildings, and traffic – including on roads, at sea, or in the air.

For Lofoten – This means flying over crowded beaches in summer, hikers on mountain trails, or surfers in the water, which has happened to me on numerous occasions, is not allowed.

Responsibility

The drone operator takes full responsibility for any harm or damage to people or property which might occur. Always operate your drone in a considerate manner.

National parks and protected areas

It is not allowed to fly in some national parks or other nature reserve areas in Norway.

For Lofoten – Since the creation of Lofotodden national park in 2018, it is now prohibited to fly drones on most of the northern side of Moskenesøy. This includes popular hiking locations like Kvalvika and Bunes beaches, Ryten, and numerous other mountain areas.