I will live in Australia and would like to know if I can take my drone into the country. I have the invoice for the product, but I fear that the equipment will be barred at the airport. Are there any laws about it?
2 Answers
I think your fears are just that .. fears.
The official CASA website: Flying drones/remotely piloted aircraft in Australia has several sections about flying drones in Australia. And (for example) under the section "How are you planning on flying your drone?" => "For fun" its states
You don’t need approval to fly your drone for fun.
There are however other choices for if you are flying commercially depending on whether your drone is under/over 2kg.
And from a quick google of "import duty drone Australia" there are several hits coming back saying that that is 0%, so I wouldn't expect any hassle at Customs, especially as it's your personal belongings.
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While importing drones is fine, there are restrictions on where you can fly them, including places like Sydney Harbour. CASA has an app where you can easily check these. Commented Feb 8, 2019 at 20:37
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Also, even if there’s no duty, one may be liable for GST (the local equivalent of VAT) depending on the circumstances.– jcaronCommented Feb 9, 2019 at 11:47
Supposedly if your drone batteries are properly stored in a Lipo Battery Fireproof bag you can get the batteries confiscated, as well as face a hefty fine, and might even be denied boarding onto the plane.
Here's a link to the bag: https://www.walmart.com/ip/Lipo-Battery-Fireproof-Bag-Storage-Guard-Safe-Charging-Holder-155mmx50mmx155mm/49312681
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1You're probably right. This doesn't make sense. Why would a properly stored battery be seized? Commented Jun 1, 2019 at 0:38
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@MichaelHampton because the small print has slightly faded? Without naming names, there is a certain airport that always tries to stir up trouble for that (in my experience). And after a 30+ second staring contest they give in. I always take this power bank for my notebook, it's been to over 15 airports across the globe but staff at one airport likes to pick it out, every time.– JJJCommented Jun 1, 2019 at 0:56