Having been involved in aviation for 10 years, and having just done my test for my RPL, I share Fuzzy’s frustrations with the CAA.
From the little exposure I have had to the world of “drones”, I have seen the CAA create ridiculous regulations, perhaps in an attempt to be overly cautious rather than be more relaxed and have something go wrong. But as Fuzzy said, they aren’t policing it. They don’t have the man power to.
My question was asked not because I am one of those “drone police”. But because I was curious to find out if the retailers are aware of the rules and regulations. The CAA should do an awareness drive with all of the retailers. And enforce the rules right from the start. It won’t solve illegal drones, but it is a step in the right direction.
I still struggle to navigate the CAA website and regulations, so it’s understandable that Oom Piet on the Plaas won’t having a cooking clue about all the laws he might be breaking.
It is becoming a competitive industry with mega bucks to be made.
A big thing is estate agents using drones for aerial shots of properties. Illegal to do without an RPL and ROC on so many levels. But no one has been correctly educated.
It is also a privacy and safety concern for those you are flying around. Those things are damn annoying. Nothing like chilling on a Table Mountain then hearing a giant mosquito buzzy around. (Drones are prohibited in national parks).
I am ranting with little structure so I am going to stop here.
As Fuzzy said, be careful guys and gals. Have fun, but don’t fly within 50m of people or buildings, on private land, above 500ft AGL, beyond line of sight, have VHF radio (for which you need a restricted radio Licence for yourself, and a Licence for the radio itself) and and and and and
