Drone filming in Turkey involves a more layered legal process than many countries. If your production includes aerial footage, skipping these steps can put the entire project at serious risk. Unpermitted drone operations can result in equipment seizure, fines, and immediate shutdown of the shoot.
The regulatory framework
Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV/drone) use in Turkey is governed by regulations managed by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (SHGM). These cover both recreational and commercial use. Advertising and promotional shoots fall under the commercial category.
Operator certification
Commercial drone filming requires the operator to hold an SHGM-approved UAV pilot certificate. Certificate classes vary based on drone weight and operation type. Working with an uncertified operator is both illegal and outside any insurance coverage.
Flight permits: who gets what, where
The permit process varies by location. Istanbul has the most complex drone permitting structure in Turkey — the city combines heavy air traffic, military zones, and historic protected sites, all of which carry flight restrictions.
- Standard commercial shoot: Application through SHGM's digital system. Minimum 3–5 business days.
- Historic sites (Sultanahmet, Topkapi, Bosphorus waterfront): Ministry of Culture and Tourism approval + SHGM permit. Can extend to 2–3 weeks.
- Restricted airspace (near airports, military facilities): Coordination with Air Force Command required. Some areas cannot be permitted at all.
- Coastal and maritime areas: Coordination with Coast Guard required.
Insurance requirement
Third-party liability insurance is mandatory for commercial drone operations. Minimum coverage varies by UAV weight class. Proof of insurance is required with permit applications.
Practical advice
- If your production includes drone shots, start the permit process at least 3 weeks in advance.
- For central Istanbul and the historic peninsula, budget 4–6 weeks.
- Keep a printed copy of the permit on set during the shoot.
- If weather forces the shoot to cancel, permits can often be extended to a new date — but that process also takes time.
- Foreign productions may require an additional permit from the Ministry of Culture on top of the standard approvals.
The risk of skipping permits
Unpermitted drone shoots in Istanbul are caught regularly. Equipment confiscation, administrative fines, and immediate production shutdown are all possible outcomes. The Bosphorus, airport corridors, and historic sites are all under active surveillance — there is no "just a few minutes, nobody's watching" anymore.
SHGM permit categories
Turkey's civil aviation authority (SHGM) classifies drone operations by aircraft weight, altitude, and proximity to populated areas. Commercial filming drones above 500g require a registered operator certificate, a licensed pilot, and per-flight notification for most locations.
Restricted zones in Istanbul include the area around Sabiha Gökçen Airport, the historic Sultanahmet peninsula, military installations, and government buildings. Flying in or near these zones requires explicit SHGM coordination clearance — a process that can take two to four weeks beyond the standard permit.
Common questions
Can we bring our own drone from abroad? Yes, under ATA Carnet or temporary import declaration. The drone must still be operated by an SHGM-registered operator.
How long does a standard permit take? Non-restricted zones: 48 hours. Restricted zones: two to four weeks. Sultanahmet historic peninsula: minimum four weeks with Ministry of Culture coordination.