Rules and Regulations for Unmanned Aircraft Systems

Red and white UAS

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, are powerful tools that support UN missions, from peacekeeping to humanitarian response. But with that capability comes responsibility.

The United Nations treats all UAS as aircraft, meaning they are subject to strict aviation safety standards and oversight.

Safe, legal, and responsible use of UAS: • Protects people and communities • Enables mission success • Reduces operational and reputational risks • Supports a strong UN safety culture When used responsibly, UAS provide significant benefits: • Situational awareness • Mapping and monitoring • Humanitarian support • Logistics and reconnaissance

Quick Links

Training & Knowledge Sharing

Knowledge Gateway

Community of Practice

Manuals & Guidance

UN Aviation Standards (UNAVSTADS)

DOS Aviation Manual

ICAO Model UAS Regulations (Parts 101 and 102)

 

 

 

 

Click on each of the tabs to find out more on the source of the rules and regulations.

  • ICAO Annexes (e.g., safety, airworthiness, operations)

  • ICAO Model UAS Regulations (Parts 101 and 102)

     

  • National aviation authority rules always apply.
  • UN operations must always respect local airspace sovereignty.

  • Close coordination between UN Missions and the Civil Aviation Authority of the respective host nation is paramount.

     

  • Memorandum of Understanding
  • Statement of Unit Requirements

  • COE Manual provisions

     

UAS operations must comply with ALL the following simultaneously: • UN rules and regulations • ICAO guidelines and regulations • Host nation laws and regulations • Mission-specific agreements and rules of engagement

These regulations apply to:

  • All UN field missions and operations
  • Peacekeeping, political, and humanitarian contexts

They cover:

  • Class I UAS (micro and mini drones) used in operations
  • All personnel, including:
    • Military and police units
    • Civilian staff
    • Contractors
  • The use of UAS in any capacity (including recreational and personal) on UN property.

 

Every UAS operation must follow these fundamental principles:

Authorization Is Mandatory

  • All flights must be formally approved in advance
  • Host nation coordination is required

Clear Accountability

  • Each flight must have a Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC)
  • The RPIC is responsible for safety and compliance

Registration and Certification

  • UAS must be registered and certified where required
  • Operators must be authorized

Airspace Awareness

  • Operations must comply with controlled/uncontrolled airspace rules
  • Coordination with Air Traffic Control may be required
  • Coordination with counter-UAS units may be required

Risk-Based Approach

  • Risk assessments must be completed before each flight
  • Hazards, including people on the ground, manned and unmanned air traffic, obstacles and topography, must be considered and minimized at all times
A drone with a red circle and line through it. Words read: No authorization = no flight

 

These are the practical “rules of the air” for UAS operations. Click on each of the tabs to find out more.

Typical rules include:

  • Maintain visual line-of-sight
  • Fly below ~120 m (400 ft) unless authorized to do otherwise
  • Keep safe distance from people and property

  • Operate in safe weather conditions

    If your operation deviates from standard conditions, you need additional authorization.

You must NOT:

  • Operate recklessly or dangerously
  • Fly under the influence of alcohol or drugs
  • Operate indoors or under cover

  • Operate near aerodromes without approval

    If your operation deviates from standard conditions, you need additional authorization.
  • Flights must be coordinated with other airspace users

  • Communication procedures (e.g., official approval, notice to air missions, air traffic control) must be followed

    If your operation deviates from standard conditions, you need additional authorization.
  • Beyond visual line-of-sight
  • Night operations

  • Operations in controlled or restricted airspace

    If your operation deviates from standard conditions, you need additional authorization.

 

Operating a UAS in the UN requires formal training.

Requirements include:

  • Mandatory UAS training and certification
  • Valid remote pilot qualifications (where applicable)

Key Competencies:

  • Safety and risk management
  • Technical knowledge of UAS systems
  • Understanding regulations and airspace
  • Operational decision-making
Only trained and authorized personnel may operate UAS.

 

Only approved and airworthy UAS may be used.

Aircraft Requirements

  • Certified and approved equipment
  • Airworthy condition
  • Proper maintenance

Documentation (must be available)

  • Registration certificate
  • Airworthiness certificate
  • Insurance
  • Operations manual
  • Logbooks and maintenance records
Checklist Before flying, ensure: • UAS is approved and functional • Documentation is complete • Maintenance is up to date

The UN uses structured inspections to ensure safe operations. Click on each of the tabs to find out more.

Inspections:

  • Verify compliance
  • Ensure readiness
  • Identify and correct issues early
  • Arrival Inspection – within 1 month of deployment
  • Operational Readiness Inspection – at least every 6 months
  • Repatriation Inspection – before withdrawal
  • Ad hoc or quarterly inspections
  • Documentation review
  • Equipment condition
  • Functional performance
  • Crew qualifications
  • Safety compliance

Findings are classified as:

  • Satisfactory
  • Unsatisfactory (requires corrective action)
no inspection = no operational readiness certification

 

At Mission Level

  • Head of Mission: Overall responsibility
  • Chief Aviation Officer: Airspace coordination and safety oversight

For Inspection Teams

  • Minimum of two inspectors:
    • UAS aviation specialist
    • Operational specialist

At UN Headquarters

  • Policy oversight and monitoring
  • Updates to standards and guidance

Operators

  • Responsible for safe, compliant operations
  • Must follow all procedures and requirements

Safety is central to all UAS operations.

Requirements:

  • Safety management system in place
  • Risk assessments before operations
  • Incident reporting obligations

Incident Reporting:

  • Accidents and serious incidents must be reported to the Department of Operational Support’s Chief Aviation Safety Section and Mission Management. Additionally, reports and updates must be made as detailed in Chapter P of the DOS Aviation Manual.

    Any incident involving UAS reflects directly on the UN’s credibility and professionalism.

UAS operations must respect:

  • Data security
  • Privacy of individuals and communities

  • Protection from cyber threats

    A drone against a sandy backdrop

 

 

 

 

 

Safe UAS use is everyone’s responsibility. Always: Plan well, fly safely, and comply fully.