Singapore is a compact city-state with dense airspace. Between Changi Airport, Paya Lebar Air Base, Tengah Air Base, and Seletar Airport, much of the island falls within 5 km of an aerodrome. This makes location planning particularly important for drone operators, whether recreational or commercial.
Official Unmanned Aircraft Flying Areas (UAFAs)
CAAS has established two designated UAFAs where recreational flying is permitted without a Class 2 Activity Permit, provided the operator stays within the area boundaries and below the specified altitude ceiling.
Pandan Reservoir UAFA
| Detail | Specification |
|---|---|
| Area | 16 hectares (over reservoir waters) |
| Operating hours | 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily |
| Altitude ceiling | 200 feet AMSL |
| Surface type | Water — aircraft recovery may be difficult |
| Amenities | Benches, smooth paved ground for take-off |
Pandan Reservoir is the larger of the two UAFAs and is located in the western part of Singapore. The open water surface provides an unobstructed flight environment, though operators should note that an aircraft landing in the reservoir may not be recoverable.
Dover Road UAFA
| Detail | Specification |
|---|---|
| Area | 0.6 hectares (land-based) |
| Opened | July 2024 |
| Surface type | Grass field with boundary flags |
| On-site signage | Regulatory rules posted at entrance |
Dover Road UAFA is a smaller, land-based area suited to pilots who prefer not to fly over water. Boundary flags mark the flight zone, and on-site signage outlines applicable rules. Due to its compact size, this UAFA works best for smaller drones and close-range practice flights.
Popular Open-Air Locations
Beyond the official UAFAs, several locations in Singapore are frequently used by drone operators. Flying at these locations still requires compliance with all CAAS regulations: registration, altitude limits, visual line-of-sight, and distance from aerodromes.
Marina Barrage
Located at the mouth of Marina Bay, the barrage offers open space with views toward the CBD skyline, Gardens by the Bay, and Marina Bay Sands. It is frequently cited as a top location for aerial photography. However, operators must verify the current airspace status on OneMap as temporary restricted areas (TRAs) are often imposed during events such as the National Day Parade and the Singapore Grand Prix.
East Coast Park
A coastal stretch along the southeastern shore. The openness of the sea-facing side provides some clearance, though proximity to Changi Airport means parts of East Coast Park fall within the 5 km aerodrome zone. Always check OneMap for the exact boundary.
Jurong Lake Gardens
A 90-hectare parkland in the western part of Singapore. The open lake and relatively low surrounding structures make it an appealing location. NParks rules apply, and "No Flying" signage in specific zones must be respected.
Punggol Waterway Park
A newer residential estate park with a waterway that provides an interesting backdrop. The north-eastern location places it further from major aerodromes, though Seletar Airport is within range of some sections.
Southern Ridges
Elevated terrain connecting Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, and Kent Ridge Park. The natural canopy and elevation provide unique photography opportunities. Caution is needed around the port area and Sentosa, where restrictions may apply.
Checking Restrictions: OneMap and FLYWHERE.SG
Before every flight, operators should verify the airspace status at their intended location. Two tools are available:
- OneMap — The official government geospatial platform. Select the "Unmanned Aircraft" theme layer to view no-fly zones, restricted areas, danger areas, and active temporary restrictions.
- FLYWHERE.SG — A complementary resource that overlays drone-specific information on a map interface. Useful for a quick visual check but should be cross-referenced with OneMap for accuracy.
No-Fly Zones (Permanent)
- Within 5 km of Changi Airport, Paya Lebar Air Base, Tengah Air Base, and Seletar Airport
- Designated protected areas under the Air Navigation Act
- National parks and nature reserves with posted "No Flying" signage
- Above critical infrastructure (power stations, water treatment facilities)
Temporary Restricted Areas
Singapore frequently establishes TRAs for national events, state visits, and security operations. Recent examples include:
- National Day Parade rehearsals and the event itself (typically July-August)
- Singapore Grand Prix weekend (Marina Bay Street Circuit)
- ASEAN Summit and other diplomatic events
- Military exercises in specific training zones
TRAs are published on OneMap and through NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) channels. They carry the same legal weight as permanent no-fly zones during their active period.
Practical Recommendations
- Check OneMap within 24 hours of your planned flight — TRAs can be imposed on short notice
- Carry a printed or digital copy of your UA registration confirmation
- If flying commercially, keep your Operator Permit and Activity Permit documentation accessible
- Maintain visual line-of-sight at all times — BVLOS operations require special CAAS approval
- Avoid flying over crowds, even in otherwise permitted areas
- Respect the 200 ft AMSL ceiling unless holding a Class 2 permit for higher altitude
Content last reviewed: April 3, 2026 — Sources: CAAS permitted flying areas page, OneMap, droneller.com, adam.edu.sg drone guide