If you're planning to fly a drone during your visit to Tromsø, Norway, we've put together a simple guide to help you follow the rules and fly safely.
Please be aware that if you do not register as a drone pilot and fly illegally, your drone will be confiscated by the police and you will get a fine. In some cases you might be expelled from the country. So please do not endanger others, be respectful and follow the rules and regulations for flying in Norway.
Disclaimer: This is intended to be a guide. When you are flying a drone in a foreign country you are expected to investigate and keep up with the current rules and regulations yourself, so you know you are in bounds of them. Check if you comply with current regulations for flying here
DRONE FLYING CHECKLIST
1. Register as a drone operator at flydrone.no
2. Check your insurance.
3. Register & Log your flights with NINOX
4. Get approval if flying inside forbidden zone.
5. Check general rules.
6. Check the weather.
1. Register as a Drone Operator
Unless your drone:
• Weighs less than 250 grams,
• Has no camera, or
• Is clearly marked as a toy,
You must register as a drone operator at flydrone.no before flying in Norway.
2. Check your insurance
When flying in Norway you need to have a valid liability insurance in accordance to regulations by the Norwegian Civil Aviation Autority. You may not fly without it. If need you can find a list of Norwegian insurance companies here.
Photo by redcharlie on Unsplash
Photo by George Kroeker on Unsplash
3. Register & Log your flights
Use the NINOX Drone App to log your flights and check for airspace restrictions.
Enter your flight plan so that aircrafts and other pilots can see your flight location and plan. We reo this regardless of flying close to the 5km restriction zone or not
Simply select “Tromsø” in the left panel to see airspace zones and request permissions where needed.
4. Get approval if flying inside forbidden zone.
Flying within 5 km of Tromsø Airport (the restricted zone) requires a special permit from the airport control tower.
To apply:
• Open the NINOX Drone App
• Click “Tromsø” on the left panel
• Follow the instructions for requesting permission
Be aware: permission is only granted for operations with a justified and professional purpose.
Hobby, recreational or playful flying is not allowed.
Approved reasons may include:
• Commercial filming (TV, film, or advertising)
• Technical inspections (e.g., buildings or infrastructure)
• Scientific research or emergency services
• Other operations with documented value beyond personal interest
Photo by Tandem X Visuals on Unsplash
5. Check general rules
For a full overview of national drone regulations, visit the Civil Aviation Authority’s drone page.
Some key reminders:
• Always keep your drone in sight
• Never fly above 120 meters (400 feet)
• Respect privacy and avoid flying over crowds
• Do not fly near emergency scenes or wildlife
6. Check weather
Always check the weather before you fly and do not put all your trust in the weather forecast. the weather can change extremely fast in the north and be attentive to this. You can find the local weather forecast here.
• Don’t fly in strong winds
• Don’t fly in fog
• Don’t fly in extreme cold
Tips for Safe and Responsible Drone Use
• Be mindful of Northern Lights tourists and photographers — drones can disrupt long exposure shots.
• Avoid flying drones in protected nature areas or over private property without permission.
• Use common sense and local courtesy — Tromsø values both nature and silence.
Helpful Tips
• You are in winter-wonder-land, so keep your batteries warm before flight (in your inner pocket so they keep good operating temperature)
• Avoid flying near photographers or tour groups observing the aurora
• In case of emergency or damage: contact local police authorities at 112
