Drone flying has opened up a world in which one can have fun and advance their aviation skills.

However, it can lead to serious consequences if not done safely. The Civil Aviation Authority has encouraged residents to play their part by following a guide of how to operate a drone safely and responsibly.

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The do’s of flying drones:
• Inspect your remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) before each flight and fly it safely.
• Fly/operate your RPA in a safe manner, at all times.
• RPA or toy aircraft should remain within the visual line of sight at all times.
• Fly/operate in daylight and clear weather conditions.

The don’ts of flying drones:
• No flying within a radius of 10km from an aerodrome or above 400ft above the surface.
• No flying in controlled airspace.
• No flying over or adjacent to a public road.
• No flying within 50m of a building.
• No flying over people or within a lateral distance of 50m from any person.
• No dropping of any objects from a drone.
• No flying near or over national key point, prison, police station, crime scene or court of law.

The authority listed the dangers of negligent operation, such as colliding with other aircraft, with possible fatal results, injury to the public and damage to people’s property.

An RPAS licence is required for commercial use. It can be obtained from the South African Civil Aviation Authority. Visit www.caa.co.za to find out more about the safe use and operation of unmanned aircraft for commercial and private uses.