Commercial RPAS operators must apply for an Authorisation using the appropriate CAAF form. A written authorisation must be received from CAAF prior to the conduct of flights. Furthermore, such RPAS must meet internationally recognised standards, and the persons or organisations that construct, maintain, and operate them must be qualified or certificated in a manner acceptable to the Authority.

Application for the issue of Authorisations

An applicant for the issue of an Authorisation to operate an RPAS commercially must submit the following to the Authority:-

For RPAS below 2kg:

  • A sub 2K Basic Drone Course certification or equivalent
  • Letter of Intent
  • Liability and Third Party Insurance Cover from a recognised Insurance broker that has dealt with Unmanned Aircraft Operations Insurance.

For RPAS above 2kg:

All of the documents listed above including the following additional documentation listed below must also be submitted:

  • Remote Pilot License or Evidence to satisfy the Authority of the competence of the person nominated to carry out test flights.

For RPAS above 7kg net weight (excluding payload):

All of the documents listed above including the following additional documentation listed below must also be submitted:

  • Complete records to demonstrate that the aircraft has been maintained as required.
  • An unmanned aircraft flight manual appropriate to the original type certification.
  • Satisfactory ground and flight test reports to a format previously agreed by the Authority.
  • A maintenance inspection programme. This must include details of any special techniques specified by the manufacturer, and details of each mandatory replacement or inspection interval.
  • Maintenance instructions regarding disassembly, transport, storage, an reassembly to airworthy condition where major components are designed to be removed for this purpose.
  • Evidence to satisfy the Authority of the competence of the person nominated to maintain the aircraft.
  • A Company Operations Manual, including a hazard identification and risk assessment system program.
  • Liability and Third Party Insurance Cover from a recognised Insurance broker that has dealt with Unmanned Aircraft Operations Insurance.

Application for the renewal of Authorisations

Applicants for the renewal of an authorisation to fly must submit up to date and valid documents specified above.