South Africa’s RPAS regulation made simple

Definitions:

“Remotely Piloted Aircraft” (RPAS) means an unmanned aircraft which is piloted from a remote pilot station, excluding model aircraft & toy aircraft.

“Toy aircraft” means a product falling under the definition of aircraft which is designed or intended for use in play by children.

“Model aircraft” means a non-human-carrying aircraft capable of sustained flight in the atmosphere & used exclusively for air display, recreational use, sport or competitions.

Acceptable uses of RPAS

For private use –

The RPAS may only be used for an individual’s personal & private purposes where there is no commercial outcome, interest or gain;

The pilot must observe all statutory requirements relating to liability, privacy & any other laws enforceable by any other authorities.

For all other use –

An RPA must be registered & may only be operated in terms of Part 101 of the South African Civil Aviation Regulations.

DON’TS

DO NOT, through act or omission, endanger the safety of another aircraft or person therein or any person or property through negligent flying/operation of Remotely Piloted Aircraft, or toy aircraft.

Do not fly/operate Remotely Piloted Aircraft, or toy aircraft 50 m or closer from:

Any person or group of persons (like sports field, road races, schools, social events, etc.)

Any property without permission from the property owner.ny property without permission from the property owner.

Unless approved by the SACAA, DO NOT fly/operate Remotely Piloted Aircraft or toy aircraft:

Near manned aircraft

10 km or closer to an aerodrome (airport, helipad, airfield)

Weighing more than 7 kg

In controlled airspace

In restricted airspace

In prohibited airspace.

Do not fly/operate Remotely Piloted Aircraft, or toy aircraft higher than 150 ft from the ground, unless approved by the Director of Civil Aviation of the SACAA.

DO’S

Fly/operate Remotely Piloted Aircraft, or toy aircraft in a safe manner, at all times.

Remotely Piloted Aircraft or toy aircraft should remain within the visual line of sight at all times.

Fly/operate RPA in daylight & clear weather conditions.

Inspect your aircraft before each flight.

Thanks to CAA

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