Drone regulations in Malta.
A working guide to the EASA framework as it applies to unmanned aerial operations in Malta. Updated as the regulation changes.
As an EU member state, Malta implements the EASA drone framework in full: EU Regulation 2019/947 and its amendments govern civil UAS operations across the archipelago, the same rules that apply in France, Germany, or Italy.
The Malta Civil Aviation Directorate (MCAD) is the national competent authority: it registers operators, issues authorisations, and enforces compliance, operating under Transport Malta.
Malta carries airspace considerations beyond the standard EASA framework: two international airports, active military zones, dense urban areas, and UNESCO-protected heritage sites each impose additional constraints. IRAS Ltd deploys systems that are correctly categorised, registered, and supported for Maltese operations from the outset.
01 / Three categories
Risk-based frameworkSubcategories A1, A2, and A3: the same aircraft class, three different distances from people.
03 / Registration
Any operator flying a UAS heavier than 250 g, or carrying a camera or sensor regardless of weight, must register with MCAD via the EASA Drone Portal.
Registration applies to the operator, not the aircraft: one registration covers the entire fleet, and the operator's e-ID must be marked on every UAS flown under it. Commercial operators register as legal entities; third-party liability insurance is mandatory, not optional. Registration is currently free and renewed annually.
04 / Restricted airspace
Six zones requiring authorisation5 km exclusion around Malta International and Gozo Heliport. Requires MCAD / ATC authorisation.
Valletta, the Grand Harbour, and UNESCO sites require specific MCAD permission with a full risk assessment.
Grand Harbour and Marsaxlokk are controlled: coordination with Transport Malta's Port Directorate may be required.
Designated AFM installations and training grounds are absolute no-fly areas without explicit clearance.
Flying over festivals, sporting events, or gatherings requires Specific category authorisation.
Extended over-water and BVLOS operations require Specific category authorisation and Maritime Authority coordination.
BVLOS, above 120 m, over people, or in controlled airspace: all require an Operational Authorisation from MCAD before flight, via SORA, PDRA, or a Light UAS Operator Certificate.