Understanding No-Fly Zones (NFZ) in Malaysia
Safe flight begins with knowing where you can—and cannot—fly. In Malaysia, the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) and the Department of Survey and Mapping (JUPEM) define specific areas of airspace that are off-limits to unauthorized aircraft, including Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS/Drones). Operating in a No-Fly Zone (NFZ) without authorization is a federal offense under the Civil Aviation Act 1969.
1. Categories of Restricted Airspace
Airspace in Malaysia is divided into several classes. For drone operators and private pilots, the three most critical designations found in the AIP (Aeronautical Information Publication) are:
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Category
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Designation
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Description
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Example Areas
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|---|---|---|---|
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Prohibited Area
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WMP (Prohibited)
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Flight is strictly forbidden at all times. Usually sensitive government or military sites.
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Istana Negara, Putrajaya (Core Zone).
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Restricted Area
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WMR (Restricted)
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Flight is restricted to specific conditions or requires prior ATC clearance.
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Military exercise areas, Royal Malaysian Air Force bases.
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Danger Area
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WMD (Danger)
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Activities dangerous to flight (e.g., live firing or gas venting) may exist.
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Gunry ranges, certain offshore oil platforms.
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2. Common No-Fly Zones for Drone Pilots
If you are operating a drone in Malaysia, you must stay clear of the following “invisible fences”:
- Aerodrome Traffic Zones (ATZ): A 5km radius around any airport or airstrip.
- Government Administrative Centers: Areas like Putrajaya and Cyberjaya are heavily regulated and require multiple permits (CAAM + APK).
- Telecommunication Towers & Power Lines: For safety and interference reasons.
- Prisons and Royal Palaces: Strictly off-limits for security and privacy.
3. How to Check for NFZs in 2026
Before every takeoff, pilots are legally required to perform a pre-flight airspace check:
- Check the AIP Malaysia: The “source of truth” for all permanent airspaces. Access eAIP Malaysia
- Monitor NOTAMs (Notice to Airmen): For temporary No-Fly Zones (e.g., during a National Day parade or VIP movement).
- Use Verified Drone Maps: While 3rd-party apps (like DJI Geo Zones) are helpful, they are not official legal references. Always cross-check with the CAAM website.
4. Applying for Clearance to Fly in an NFZ
If your mission requires you to fly within a Restricted Area (e.g., an inspection of a facility near an airport), you must:
- Apply for an Authorisation to Fly (ATF) via the ASOS Portal.
- Obtain a Letter of No Objection (LNO) from the “Owner” of the airspace (e.g., the Airport Manager or the Police).
- Submit a JUPEM (APK) Permit if any aerial photography or filming is involved.
5. Penalties for NFZ Violations
Unauthorized entry into restricted Malaysian airspace is taken very seriously:
- Individuals: Fines of up to RM 50,000 and/or imprisonment for up to 3 years.
- Companies: Fines of up to RM 100,000.
- Equipment: The drone and controller may be seized by the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM).
6. Official Resources & Reference Links
- Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP): The official map of Malaysian airspace. Access eAIP
- CAD 6011 Part V (UAS Special Operations): Rules for flying in restricted areas. Download PDF
- JUPEM (Security Clearance): For permits to film in sensitive areas. Visit JUPEM