Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAV), or Drones, are operated in Antarctica for a range of purposes within the Australian Antarctic Program, both commercially and recreationally.

Drones are used for:

  • research, data collection, mapping, remote sensing
  • survey
  • professional media and film
  • operations (eg. crevasse detection, roof inspections)
  • recreation

The AAD is strongly committed to protecting the unique and fragile environment in Antarctica, the Southern Ocean and sub-Antarctic islands.
To ensure the use of drones has a minimal impact on the environment, the AAD has developed policies to manage their use.

Please contact drones@aad.gov.au for more information.

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