How to Operate Drones Commercially in South Africa
Although the new regulations for operating drones commercially in South Africa only took effect on 1 July 2015, a number of drone operators have begun to comply with the regulations.
For example, it is possible to achieve a number of the requirements of the regulations, including the following.
Some Drone Operators Already Have Achieved the Following:
- Restricted Radio Licence (also known as Restricted Certificate of Radiotelephony – Aeronautical). Online theory exam at CAA as well as a practical exam with a certified examiner.
- Aviation Medical Certificate (or complete the Medical self assessment form supplied after 1 July)
- English Language Proficiency Certificate.
- RPL pilot training (practical and theory training for RPAS in line with Part 101).
- Prepared documents to be ready to submit as soon as it is possible to do so (see below).
- RPAS Flight Manual.
- RPAS Maintenance program (manufacturer).
- RPAS technical description.
- Operations Manual (generated by the operator).
- Security Manual.
- SMS – Safety Management System.
- QMS – Quality Management System.
- Flight Manual.
- Criminal record checks and background checks of all staff.
After the draft regulations are adopted, drone operators will be able to progress further.
- RPL – Remote Pilot Licence. Will be a single online exam at CAA and a skills test (practical flying test).
- RPA registration (will be a registration number starting with ZT…)
- ROC – RPAS Operating Certificate.
- RLA – RPA Letter of Approval.
- Permission for Aerial Work from Air Services Council.
This article applies to commercial drone operations only.
No part of this website should be taken as legal advice!
Info is provided freely, and is updated regularly. Please help us keep this info accurate by reporting errors or updates.
INFORMATION FOR OWNERS AND OPERATORS CLICK HERE