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.
For Hobby Regulations click here
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