Drone Rules for Hiroshima Airport
Fly Status: Strictly Prohibited. Hiroshima Airport (HIJ) is a critical transportation hub. Flying a drone within its approach/departure surfaces or above the airport premises is a federal crime under Japan’s Civil Aeronautics Act. Unauthorized flights in these zones pose severe risks to aviation safety.
No-Fly Zones: The area surrounding Hiroshima Airport is a mandatory no-fly zone. Any drone weighing 100g or more requires registration, Remote ID, and explicit MLIT flight permission.
Legal Framework: Japan’s Civil Aeronautics Act treats drones as aircraft. Violating flight restrictions can lead to imprisonment for up to one year or fines up to ¥500,000.
Operational Mandates: Even outside restricted airport zones, you must:
Maintain a 30m buffer from people, buildings, and vehicles.
Fly only during daylight hours and within Visual Line of Sight (VLOS).
Avoid flying over "Densely Inhabited Districts" (DIDs) or event sites without specific approval.
How to be "Socially Accepted" and Lawful Do Not Fly Near HIJ: Airport security and police monitor these zones constantly. Never attempt a flight near the runway or approach paths.
Verify Airspace: Always use the DIPS 2.0 Map before planning any flight to check for prohibited airspaces.
Respect Privacy: Drone operations in urban or residential areas often lead to complaints. Always prioritize safety and avoid residential zones where privacy is expected.
Join a Club: The only authorized way to practice near populated areas is through federated groups or designated indoor flight facilities that have pre-approved safety protocols.