Drone Incident and Accident Reporting in Sri Lanka
Last verified 2026-07-19 · Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL)
When and how drone accidents must be reported in Sri Lanka: the CAASL Mandatory Occurrence Report (CAA/AS/018), police notification and practical steps.
By the Sri Lanka Drone Editorial Team · Last reviewed 19 July 2026
Quick answer
CAASL requires operators to inform the local police and CAASL immediately if a drone is involved in an accident that results in a serious or fatal injury to a person, or that affects a manned aircraft. The formal report is made through CAASL's Mandatory Occurrence Report, form CAA/AS/018. Operators should also document the scene, preserve flight logs and notify their insurer, since third-party insurance is part of the approval framework.
- Responsible authority
- Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL)
- Who this applies to
- All drone operators in Sri Lanka.
- Verification status
- verified against official source
- Last verified
- 19 July 2026
- Last reviewed
- 19 July 2026
What must be reported
The published trigger for mandatory reporting is an accident that causes a serious or fatal injury to a person, or that affects a manned aircraft. In both cases the requirement is immediate notification of the local police and CAASL, followed by the Mandatory Occurrence Report on form CAA/AS/018, which is available through CAASL's downloads.
Practical steps after an incident
Beyond the formal requirement, a sensible incident routine protects everyone involved.
- Make the scene safe and arrange medical help first
- Notify the local police and CAASL immediately where the mandatory criteria are met
- Preserve the drone, batteries and any damaged property as they are
- Export and preserve flight logs, photos and witness details
- File form CAA/AS/018 with CAASL
- Notify your insurer, since third-party cover is part of the approval framework
Lost drones and near misses
A flyaway or lost drone near an airport, military area or crowd can raise security concerns even without injury. If a lost drone could plausibly affect aviation or a sensitive site, contacting CAASL and the police proactively is the prudent course. For near misses with manned aircraft, the mandatory reporting requirement applies.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to report every drone crash?
The mandatory requirement covers accidents causing serious or fatal injury, or affecting a manned aircraft. For lesser incidents, reporting is still wise where safety, security or third-party property is involved.
Which form is used for drone occurrence reporting?
CAASL's Mandatory Occurrence Report, form CAA/AS/018, available through CAASL's official downloads.
Who do I contact first after a serious drone accident?
Arrange medical help, then notify the local police and CAASL immediately, as CAASL's published rules require.
Spotted outdated or incorrect information? Suggest a correction.
