Colombian Drone Regulations – Updated as of 5/21/2015
We reached out to the Civil Aviation Authority to learn more about the current Colombian Drone Regulations. They informed us that:
“Regulation which currently applies for Drones, also known as: freight drones, UAVs, UASs, is contained in the norm RAC 4 of the Colombian Aeronautical Regulations, published in our website, www.aerocivil.gov.co, particularly in paragraph 4.25.2. in conformity with paragraph 4.25.8. These provisions submit Drones under the same constraints that rules for model airplanes used for recreational and sport utility.
In addition, a Circular on new dispositions for the operability of this equipment is being issued, while a detailed norm is released. This framework is also available on our website”.
We have translated the rules in paragraph 4.25.8 of the Colombian Drone Regulations from Spanish to English, please let us know if you see any errors in our translation.
- Do not fly near buildings or near crowds of people.
- Do not fly a manner that will create a risk for persons or property; particularly when strong wind or any other weather factor and mechanical damage of the equipment or control equipment, or lack of skill of the operator can cause loss of control
- The maximum weight allowed is 25 Kg. UAVs above that weight must have approval from Directorate of Air Operations and have liability insurance for damage to third parties.
- No metal propellers of any kind may be used.
- Do not fly within 5 KM of an airport unless there is special permission from the Directorate of
Air Operations. - Do not fly at a height greater than 500 feet above the ground.
- Do not allow the UAV to be more than 750 meters away from the operator.
- Line of sight must be maintained between the operator and the drone.
We will keep you up to date as Colombian Drone Regulations evolve.