Türkiye leads drone surge with over 1.5 million certified pilots

Interest in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, is rapidly rising in Türkiye, with the number of certified drone pilots nearing 1.6 million.

According to the 2024 Activity Report by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (SHGM) under the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, the number of licensed drone pilots in Türkiye has reached 1,578,000, while the number of registered drones has surpassed 80,000.

Drones transforming sectors from security to mapping

Drones in Türkiye are now essential in a wide range of fields, including border security, search and rescue missions, agricultural inspections, forest monitoring, and mapping. As drone use becomes more widespread, the government is rolling out systems to ensure their safe and efficient integration into national airspace.

One such initiative is the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Tracking and Traffic Management System (IHATTYS). This project aims to make drone flights more accessible, safer, efficient, environmentally friendly, and digitally integrated. The system is expected to mitigate safety and security issues posed by the increasing number of drones.

New digital system to strengthen air safety

IHATTYS is designed to enable the Directorate General of Civil Aviation to monitor and manage all drone operations in Türkiye without the need for additional hardware installations on the drones themselves.

Ahead of its rollout, necessary legal frameworks will be finalized to support the system’s implementation.

Certified drone pilots surpass 1.5 Million

As of last year, the number of individuals holding an “IHA Pilot License” reached 1,578,000. Türkiye continues to push for a leadership role globally in operational infrastructure and navigation standards in drone technology.

All regulations regarding drone imports, sales, registration, flight eligibility, air traffic services, and operational guidelines fall under the authority of the SHGM. Rules for drone operation vary depending on the drone’s weight and intended use. For instance, drones weighing 500 grams or more must be registered and approved by the Directorate General.

Free certification for amateur drone enthusiasts

Drone hobbyists in Türkiye can obtain a Sportive/Amateur Pilot Certificate by passing a free online exam consisting of 20 questions prepared by SHGM. This certificate permits drone flights only in open, uninhabited areas known as “green zones.”

For commercial drone operations, pilots must complete certified training from authorized institutions and obtain a Commercial UAV Pilot Training Certificate, as well as an official license issued by SHGM.

No-fly zones near airports, security zones

Drone flights are strictly prohibited in areas deemed sensitive to security or public safety, including police and military zones, government facilities, and no-fly areas.

In addition, drones are not allowed to fly within a 9-kilometer radius of airports’ approach zones.