The Namibia Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a stern warning to drone operators as reports of reckless flights in restricted areas continue to rise, vowing to take firm action against offenders.
NCAA spokesperson Nelson Ashipala said drones—officially known as Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS)—are increasingly being flown near airports, military bases, national parks, private homes, and farms, posing a direct threat to aviation safety and public security. “The situation has become unacceptable. These are clear violations, and the Authority will not tolerate them any longer,” he stressed.
Under Part 101 of the Namibian Civil Aviation Regulations, drone flights in restricted or prohibited airspace, near aerodromes, or beyond the pilot’s visual line of sight are illegal unless operators hold proper certification and authorisation. The NCAA has warned that those caught breaking the law will face decisive enforcement measures.
While acknowledging the value of drones in agriculture, research, tourism, and photography, Ashipala said misuse threatens national interests and cannot be ignored. To curb violations, the NCAA will soon launch a Responsible Use of Drones campaign, aimed at educating the public, highlighting no-fly zones, and promoting accountability.
Ashipala said that they have also had complaints about drones that have landed at private houses, which is a breach of security.
The Authority appealed to all operators to play their part: “Fly responsibly, stay informed, and help us keep Namibia’s skies safe.”
Farmers have also raised concerns about a rise in drone activity, fearing it may be linked to poaching or theft.
According to the Namibia Agricultural Union (NAU), drones have become an increasing nuisance across the country, with more farmers and rural residents reporting sightings – especially at night.
The question was raised whether these drone sightings hold any connection to poaching or theft incidents,” the union said.
In response, NAU has called on the public to report sightings so that these may be investigated.
The union said a group of concerned citizens has established a data collection protocol to log sightings potentially linked to potential criminal activity.
“Alarm has been raised with the police and the Namibia Civil Aviation Authority (NCCA), and both instances require written feedback to start an investigation," NAU explained.
Assist investigations
The union said data collection will include monitoring sightings, mapping locations or flight paths, recording frequency, and noting the size of the drones.
“Should drones be confiscated, they should be handled with care so that fingerprints, IP address details, drone type, make, and model, and footage can be secured.”
The NAU said individuals who observe drone activity are encouraged to follow specific steps, including joining a regional WhatsApp group.
Observers should complete an affidavit and have it certified at a police station, the union added.
The completed form, along with any photos (if they are available), should then be shared in the relevant WhatsApp group to enable authorities to investigate possible links to criminal activity in the area.
The tourism ministry recently announced a complete ban on drones within Etosha National Park, citing escalating security concerns linked to rhino poaching.
NCAA spokesperson Nelson Ashipala said drones—officially known as Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS)—are increasingly being flown near airports, military bases, national parks, private homes, and farms, posing a direct threat to aviation safety and public security. “The situation has become unacceptable. These are clear violations, and the Authority will not tolerate them any longer,” he stressed.
Under Part 101 of the Namibian Civil Aviation Regulations, drone flights in restricted or prohibited airspace, near aerodromes, or beyond the pilot’s visual line of sight are illegal unless operators hold proper certification and authorisation. The NCAA has warned that those caught breaking the law will face decisive enforcement measures.
While acknowledging the value of drones in agriculture, research, tourism, and photography, Ashipala said misuse threatens national interests and cannot be ignored. To curb violations, the NCAA will soon launch a Responsible Use of Drones campaign, aimed at educating the public, highlighting no-fly zones, and promoting accountability.
Ashipala said that they have also had complaints about drones that have landed at private houses, which is a breach of security.
The Authority appealed to all operators to play their part: “Fly responsibly, stay informed, and help us keep Namibia’s skies safe.”
Farmers have also raised concerns about a rise in drone activity, fearing it may be linked to poaching or theft.
According to the Namibia Agricultural Union (NAU), drones have become an increasing nuisance across the country, with more farmers and rural residents reporting sightings – especially at night.
The question was raised whether these drone sightings hold any connection to poaching or theft incidents,” the union said.
In response, NAU has called on the public to report sightings so that these may be investigated.
The union said a group of concerned citizens has established a data collection protocol to log sightings potentially linked to potential criminal activity.
“Alarm has been raised with the police and the Namibia Civil Aviation Authority (NCCA), and both instances require written feedback to start an investigation," NAU explained.
Assist investigations
The union said data collection will include monitoring sightings, mapping locations or flight paths, recording frequency, and noting the size of the drones.
“Should drones be confiscated, they should be handled with care so that fingerprints, IP address details, drone type, make, and model, and footage can be secured.”
The NAU said individuals who observe drone activity are encouraged to follow specific steps, including joining a regional WhatsApp group.
Observers should complete an affidavit and have it certified at a police station, the union added.
The completed form, along with any photos (if they are available), should then be shared in the relevant WhatsApp group to enable authorities to investigate possible links to criminal activity in the area.
The tourism ministry recently announced a complete ban on drones within Etosha National Park, citing escalating security concerns linked to rhino poaching.
