The Eswatini Civil Aviation Authority (ESWACAA) has warned members of the public and businesses against operating unregistered drones, saying the growing trend poses a threat to aviation safety and national security.
Addressing the media during a press conference, Director of the Flight Safety Standards Division, Lyndon Hermansson, said all drones operating within the Kingdom must comply with the Civil Aviation Act of 2022 and ESWACAA’s UAV/RPAS Operational Approval requirements.
Hermansson said the authority has noted with concern an increase in reports of drones being operated without proper approval and certification.
“We are seeing more drones being flown without registration or the necessary approvals, and this creates serious safety and security concerns within our airspace,” said Hermansson.
He explained that drones weighing 249 grams and below can be registered free of charge through a simple administrative process. Owners are required to bring the drone, proof of ownership, and identification documents to ESWACAA for registration.
For drones weighing 250 grams and above, operators are required to formally apply for registration and pay a nominal fee.
Hermansson said the registration process enables ESWACAA to monitor ownership, operational compliance, and accountability in the event of incidents or aviation safety breaches.
“Unregistered drones make aviation oversight difficult and increase the risk of unsafe operations, especially near airports, populated areas, and other restricted zones,” he said.
He further noted that commercial drone operators are required to obtain an Air Transport Licence (ATL) and a UAV Air Operator Certificate (UAOC) before offering services to businesses or the public.
In addition, drone pilots conducting commercial operations must hold valid Remote Pilot Certificates (RPCs) recognised by ESWACAA.
Hermansson stressed that responsible drone ownership is critical in protecting both manned and unmanned aviation activities and ensuring safer skies for all users of Eswatini’s airspace.
He also encouraged members of the public to report suspected illegal drone operations to assist authorities in safeguarding the Kingdom’s airspace.
For enquiries regarding drone registration and compliance requirements, the public may contact ESWACAA’s Flight Safety Standards Division on 2333 5370 or email drones@eswacaa.co.sz.