Fly Drones in Norway: Tromsø, Oslo, Bodø & Lofoten — What You Should Know

Why Drone Footage Elevates a Trip to Northern Norway

A drone turns Northern Norway from a series of beautiful scenes into a coherent story. From above, fjords, islands and peaks line up; colours deepen; light lingers. You can move from wide panorama to close detail in one smooth pass and, in winter, hold steady while the aurora paints the sky. With thoughtful planning and respect for local rules, aerial footage gives your trip the clarity and scale it deserves.

But before taking off, it’s important to know that drone flying in Norway comes with strict regulations. Many areas, especially near airports or protected nature zones, have restrictions on where and when you can fly. Avinor currently manages this through the Ninox Drone app, which helps pilots check flight zones and request permissions. Later this year, Ninox will be replaced by a new and improved system called Avidrone, making it easier to plan safe and compliant flights across Norway.

Flying Drones Where There Are Whales

At Brim Explorer, we do not allow drones to be launched or operated from our boats. The safety and comfort of our guests always come first, and drones can pose both physical and acoustic risks onboard. In the past, we have permitted limited drone operations under strict supervision by our team, ensuring all flights complied fully with Norwegian aviation regulations.

While Norway currently has no specific national laws restricting drone flights near whales, we choose to go beyond what is required. Our approach to whale watching is built on respect. We believe in observing, not disturbing. Drones can easily disrupt the natural behaviour of these majestic animals, so we ask all visitors to follow our example and keep the skies above them clear. Protecting the peace of the whales is part of protecting the magic of the moment.

Key Rules & Regulations for Drone Flying in Norway (as of 2025)

Before heading out with your drone in Norway, here are key rules and best practices:

Check for restricted airspace
Airports, military zones, national parks, and protected areas may restrict or ban drone flights. Use Avinor’s drone app (now Avidrone) or official maps to see no-fly zones.

Maintain visual line of sight
You must be able to see your drone at all times, unless you have special authorization.

Altitude limits and separation
You generally cannot fly above 120 meters (400 ft) unless given explicit permission. Stay well away from other aircraft.

Respect privacy and safety
Avoid flying over people, private property without consent, and sensitive installations.

Insurance & pilot competence
It is wise to have proper insurance. If flying in controlled airspace or near airports, you may need certifications or permissions.

Drone Flying in Tromsø

Why Tromsø?

Tromsø, well above the Arctic Circle, offers auroras, coastal islands, snow-capped peaks, and dramatic fjords. For drone enthusiasts, ideal opportunities include:

• Aerial views of Tromsø city against the fjord and surrounding peaks
• Capturing the Midnight Sun (in summer) or Northern Lights (in winter)
• Coastal archipelago and island chains

What to watch out for / restrictions

• Close proximity to Tromsø Airport necessitates careful checks in Avinor’s system (5 km buffer zones).
• Weather can change fast such as wind, snow, fog may make flights challenging
• Be aware of protected nature areas and bird nesting seasons

Pro tip: Early morning or twilight hours often give the best light and minimal air traffic.

Drone Flying in Oslo

Why Oslo?

As the capital, Oslo has a denser urban environment and many points of interest:

• Drone views of the Oslo fjord, islands like Hovedøya, Bygdøy peninsula
• Urban vistas: Akershus Fortress, Opera House, cityscape from above
• Green hills and forested outskirts offering contrast

What to watch out for / restrictions

• Heavy restrictions near Oslo Gardermoen Airport and in controlled airspace
• Many parts of the city are within no-fly or restricted zones; permission is required
• Check with local authorities or municipal drone guidelines

Strategy: Use rooftops or outskirts to launch; combine with ground photography in stricter zones.

Drone Flying in Bodø

Why Bodø?

Bodø, the gateway to the Lofoten and Steigen region, is surrounded by dramatic coastline, islands, and fjords:

• Aerial views of the Salstraumen maelstrom
• Island hopping perspectives
• Coastal cliffs, beaches, and northern sea vistas

What to watch out for / restrictions

• Bodø Airport’s airspace control — confirm 5 km buffer and use Avinor’s system
• Weather changes: strong coastal winds, fog, and sea spray
• Access to remote launch areas may require trekking

Tip: Use weather windows carefully. Early morning often gives calmer winds and sea conditions.

Drone Flying in Lofoten

Why Lofoten?

The Lofoten archipelago is a drone photographer’s dream: sharp peaks rising out of fjords, turquoise waters, fishing villages, beaches, iconic Norwegian scenery.

• Aerials of Reine, Hamnøy, Kvalvika Beach, and the dramatic ridge lines
• Coastal panoramas during midnight sun or dusk
• Using drones to tell the story of shifting light, shadows, and motion

What to watch out for / restrictions

• Some parts are protected nature areas with regulations or prohibited zones
• The terrain is rugged — launching and landing safely can be tricky
• Strong winds funneling through fjords; salt spray is corrosive

Best times: Late spring through early autumn gives better conditions for drones.