How High Can Drones Legally Fly in India: A Complete Guide (2026 Update)

Introduction: Understanding Drone Altitude Rules in India

Drones are now an integral part of modern industries used for industrial inspection, agriculture, cinematography, mapping, surveillance, infrastructure monitoring, and even logistics.

As adoption grows, so does the need to understand the legal framework that governs how high and where drones can fly in India. Flying beyond the permitted limit can lead to hefty penalties, confiscation, or even legal action under aviation laws.

This comprehensive guide explains everything about drone flying height limits in India as per DGCA’s 2026 regulations, including airspace classifications, permissions, commercial applications, and safety tips for every drone pilot.

Who Regulates Drone Flying in India?

Drone operations in India are regulated by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) under the Drone Rules framework. The Digital Sky Platform is India’s official online system for drone registration, flight permissions, and airspace maps.

Every legal drone flight in India today must comply with:

• The Drone Rules, 2021 (as amended in 2026)

• Digital Sky’s Airspace Classifications

• Local administrative and security restrictions

If you operate a drone without following these systems, your operation is technically illegal.

What Is the Maximum Legal Flying Height for Drones in India?

As of 2026, the maximum legal altitude for drones in India is 120 meters (400 feet) above ground level.

This height restriction applies to all types of drone uses, including:

• Recreational flying

• Commercial operations

• Industrial inspections

• Photography and videography

• FPV racing and survey drones

👉 Important:
This limit is measured from the takeoff point, not from sea level.
If you take off from a hilltop or building, the 120-meter limit is calculated from that takeoff position, not the ground below.

Also Read: What is a Drone? A Powerful Guide to Understanding Drones

Why Is There a 120 Meter Height Limit?

The 120-meter rule ensures that drones remain below the altitude of manned aircraft, which usually operate above this height.

This limit:

• Creates a safety buffer between drones and aircraft

• Reduces collision risk and airspace interference

• Simplifies airspace management for authorities

• Aligns with international drone safety standards

From an aviation safety standpoint, the 120m cap is practical, globally accepted, and crucial for both pilots’ and public safety.

Understanding Airspace Zones in India (Digital Sky Classification)

India’s airspace is divided into three major drone zones under the Digital Sky platform:

Zone Type	Can You Fly?	Maximum Height	Requirements
Green Zone	✅ Yes	Up to 120 meters	Standard safety rules
Yellow Zone	⚠️ With Permission	Usually <120 meters	Prior DGCA approval
Red Zone	❌ No	Not permitted	Central Govt approval only

1. Green Zone

• Safe for drone operations

• No prior permission needed (within limits)

• Must stay below 120 meters

• Found in most rural and open areas

2. Yellow Zone

• Controlled airspace near airports, defense airfields, or strategic installations

• Requires prior DGCA approval

• Height may be lower than 120 meters

3. Red Zone

• Strictly no-fly areas

• Includes military bases, borders, and high-security government zones

• Drone flights prohibited without central government approval

Tip: Always check your Digital Sky map before every flight to verify your zone classification.

Are There Exceptions to the 120 Meter Rule?

Yes, but only for special approved operations such as:

• Government or infrastructure projects

• Industrial inspection or surveying

• Experimental or BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) trials

To fly above 120 meters, you must have:

• Special DGCA approval

• Certified pilots

• Approved flight plans

• Air traffic coordination

• Safety and redundancy systems

For all recreational and commercial users, 120 meters remains the absolute ceiling.

Does Drone Weight Affect Height Limits?

No - drone weight does not affect altitude limits.
Whether your drone weighs under 250g, 1kg, 5kg, or 25kg, the maximum legal altitude remains 120 meters unless you have specific approval.

However, heavier drones have additional requirements such as:

• Remote ID

• Pilot certification

• Safety documentation

But no default altitude advantage is granted.

FPV Drones and Height Limits in India

FPV (First Person View) drones have gained immense popularity in India for racing, creative content, and industrial inspections.

However, they must still follow the same 120-meter rule.

FPV operators must also:

• Maintain Visual Line of Sight (VLOS)

• Have a spotter for visual confirmation

• Follow Digital Sky’s airspace classification

FPV does not mean free flight all standard rules apply.

Commercial Drone Operations and Altitude Rules

Commercial drone users — including surveyors, real estate firms, agriculture companies, and film crews — are also bound by:

• The 120m ceiling

• Digital Sky permissions

• Safety & compliance standards

Commercial licensing or professional use does not automatically allow higher flights.

Penalties for Flying Above Legal Limits

Flying beyond the 120-meter altitude is a serious offense under DGCA and aviation laws.

Violations may lead to:

• Heavy fines and penalties

• Confiscation of drone equipment

• Suspension of license or registration

• Criminal or legal action

With the introduction of Remote ID and real-time airspace monitoring, such violations are easier than ever to detect.

How to Check Legal Height Limits Before Flying

Follow these steps every time before launching your drone:

1. Open the Digital Sky platform

2. Locate your current position on the airspace map

3. Confirm your zone classification

4. Check the allowed height limit

5. Apply for permission if necessary

6. Fly only within the allowed ceiling

Never assume an area is safe just because it looks empty or rural.

Common Myths About Drone Flying Height in India

Myth	Truth
Small drones can fly higher	❌ All drones follow the 120m limit
Rural areas have no restrictions	❌ The limit applies nationwide
FPV drones are exempt	❌ FPV drones follow the same rules
You can fly higher if no planes are visible	❌ Airspace rules apply regardless of aircraft presence

Why These Rules Matter for Drone Safety and Growth

India aims to become a global drone hub by promoting responsible and safe drone usage.
The 120m altitude limit ensures:

• Protection for manned aviation

• Prevention of accidents

• Public trust in drone technology

• Sustainable industry growth

By adhering to these guidelines, drone operators help create a safer and more organized airspace ecosystem.

What InsideFPV Recommends for Safe and Legal Drone Flights

At InsideFPV, we recommend:

• Always fly within legal limits

• Regularly check the Digital Sky map

• Train and certify your drone pilots

• Use DGCA-compliant equipment

• Treat rules as safety tools, not restrictions

Professional drone operations thrive on discipline, planning, and compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I fly my drone above 120 meters in India if I get permission?
Yes, but only with special DGCA approval via Digital Sky. Such permissions are typically for government or industrial projects, not hobby use.

2. Does the 120-meter limit apply to small drones under 250 grams?
Absolutely. The 120-meter maximum height applies to all drones, regardless of weight or category.

3. How is drone flying height measured in India?
Drone height is measured from the takeoff point, not from sea level or terrain elevation.

4. What happens if I exceed the legal drone height limit?
Violations may result in fines, drone confiscation, or legal prosecution under aviation laws.

5. Can I fly in rural areas without checking airspace maps?
No. Always verify the airspace zone on Digital Sky before every flight.

6. Do FPV drones have separate height limits?
No. FPV drones follow the same 120-meter ceiling and airspace restrictions.

Conclusion: Fly Safe, Stay Legal, and Build India’s Drone Future

Knowing how high drones can legally fly in India is essential for every pilot, business, and organization.
By respecting the 120-meter limit, following Digital Sky protocols, and prioritizing safety, you not only avoid penalties but also contribute to India’s growing drone ecosystem.

Whether you’re an FPV racer, aerial photographer, or industrial operator, responsible flying ensures a safer sky for all.

External Resource: Visit DGCA’s Digital Sky Portal for the latest updates, permissions, and airspace maps.