Updated August 21, 2025
Japan Civil Aviation Bureau
The Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB), under the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT), regulates unmanned aircraft systems in Japanese airspace. JCAB oversees drone registration, pilot certification, operational approvals, and safety compliance for all UAS operations.
Regulator Overview
Basic information about Japan Civil Aviation Bureau
Full Name
Japan Civil Aviation Bureau
Jurisdiction
JP
Alternative Names
JCAB, Japan CAB, MLIT Aviation Bureau
Notable Facts
Important information about drone regulations
Level 4 flights (over populated areas BVLOS) approved since December 2022
DID (Densely Inhabited Districts) flights require specific approvals
Maximum altitude 150m AGL without special authorization
Alcohol prohibition applies to drone pilots same as manned aircraft
Insurance requirements vary by operation type and risk level
Advanced training required for Level 3 and Level 4 operations
Unit Systems
Measurement units used in this regulator's jurisdiction
Weight
grams
Distance
meters
Altitude
meters
Speed
km/h
Regulations
Current regulations and frameworks for drone operations
| Title | Effective Date |
|---|---|
| Aviation Act (Revised 2022)REG-1 | June 19, 2022 |
| Unmanned Aircraft Registration SystemREG-2 | June 19, 2022 |
Official Resources
About this regulatory authority
Country
JP
Region
National
Type
National
Updated
8/21/2025
Contact Information
How to reach Japan Civil Aviation Bureau
Last updated: 8/21/2025