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Friday, Apr 03, 2026
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Davao City Implements Strict No-Fly Zone Around International Airport
New regulations aim to enhance air safety and operational efficiency at Davao International Airport.
Davao City has reinforced air safety regulations surrounding the Davao International Airport, also known as Francisco Bangoy International Airport, in an effort to enhance safe air travel for all.
The city government announced the enforcement of Ordinance No. 0419-20, which is part of the Davao International Airport Safety Ordinance of 2007. This regulation prohibits numerous activities that may pose risks to aircraft operations within an 8-kilometer radius of the airport, as well as a 12-kilometer stretch along the flight paths of Runway 23 and Runway 05.
The ordinance explicitly bans the flying of kites, balloons, drones, and remote-controlled aircraft.
It also restricts loitering in designated areas, the release of pigeons (unless they are caged), the operation of remote-controlled cars, unauthorized entry by porters, and unpermitted vending activities near the airport.
Drones, in particular, are heavily regulated; flying them anywhere in Davao City is prohibited without proper registration and a special permit.
Even drones that obtain such permits are not allowed to operate in no-fly zones, restricted airspace, or sensitive areas that are governed by national aviation regulations.
Violators of Ordinance No. 0419-20 face fines ranging from ₱3,000 to ₱5,000 and the possibility of having their equipment confiscated.
Additionally, penalties under the 2007 ordinance can include fines of ₱1,000 to ₱3,000 or imprisonment for up to 15 days.
City officials have stressed the importance of these regulations for public safety and the efficient operation of the airport.
They have also encouraged local residents, particularly those who enjoy flying drones as a hobby, to seek guidance from authorities and familiarize themselves with local laws prior to engaging in any activities in proximity to the airport.
The city government announced the enforcement of Ordinance No. 0419-20, which is part of the Davao International Airport Safety Ordinance of 2007. This regulation prohibits numerous activities that may pose risks to aircraft operations within an 8-kilometer radius of the airport, as well as a 12-kilometer stretch along the flight paths of Runway 23 and Runway 05.
The ordinance explicitly bans the flying of kites, balloons, drones, and remote-controlled aircraft.
It also restricts loitering in designated areas, the release of pigeons (unless they are caged), the operation of remote-controlled cars, unauthorized entry by porters, and unpermitted vending activities near the airport.
Drones, in particular, are heavily regulated; flying them anywhere in Davao City is prohibited without proper registration and a special permit.
Even drones that obtain such permits are not allowed to operate in no-fly zones, restricted airspace, or sensitive areas that are governed by national aviation regulations.
Violators of Ordinance No. 0419-20 face fines ranging from ₱3,000 to ₱5,000 and the possibility of having their equipment confiscated.
Additionally, penalties under the 2007 ordinance can include fines of ₱1,000 to ₱3,000 or imprisonment for up to 15 days.
City officials have stressed the importance of these regulations for public safety and the efficient operation of the airport.
They have also encouraged local residents, particularly those who enjoy flying drones as a hobby, to seek guidance from authorities and familiarize themselves with local laws prior to engaging in any activities in proximity to the airport.
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