How heavy your drone can be depends on how you want to operate it.

Your drone can weigh up to 25 kg and must always be safe to operate.

However, if your drone weighs between 15 kg and 25 kg, it must be inspected by an approved organisation to check that it is airworthy first.

The following organisations or persons have been approved by the Director to do this:

If you want to fly a drone over 25 kg, or fly outside of the Part 101 rules, you must apply for a Part 102 unmanned aircraft operator certificate before you fly.

Intro to Part 101 rules for unmanned aircraft

Intro to Part 102 certification for unmanned aircraft

 Finding all this a bit confusing?

Please consider investing in your own knowledge and skills by undertaking a drone pilot course.

If you have any questions about drones, use our contact form, or email rpas@caa.govt.nz