Agencies Responsible for regulating drones in the Republic of Zimbabwe
Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ)
UAS Laws – General rules for flying drones in Zimbabwe
The Zimbabwean agency responsible for drone safety, CAAZ, has provided several internet-accessible details on flying a drone for fun or work. The highlights are enumerated below. For more details go to the link above.
Are drones allowed in Zimbabwe?
Here are the most important rules to know for flying a drone in Zimbabwe:
- Drones can fly up to 120 meters (400 feet).
- Drones may fly up to 500 meters (1,640 feet) from the pilot and up to 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) with special permission and the assistance of a qualified visual observer.
- Without prior approval from the CAAZ, drones may not be flown at night.
- Drones are not permitted to be flown within a five-kilometer (3-mile) radius of any airport or airfield.
- Drone insurance is required.
Zimbabweans always need a Letter of Approval (RPA) from the CAAZ.
RPAs are initially valid for one year and can then be issued for a further three years.
You must demonstrate piloting skills and show that your aircraft has sufficient safety standards.
During copter flights, a first-aid kit and a fire extinguisher must always be nearby.
All relevant paperwork must always accompany your drone in case it is requested.
Note for Foreign Operators
To enter Zimbabwe with a drone, you must submit the following information to the CAAZ at least 30 days before your arrival date:
- The drone’s owner’s name and address
- The drone’s model, serial number, and manufacturer
- The drone’s weight and specifications
- If applicable, the country in which the drone is already registered
- What purpose the drone will serve in Zimbabwe
- Duration anticipated for the planned temporary import
- Specifics of the flight plan
- Foreigners must also obtain a Temporary Import Permit (TIP) from the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority after receiving approval from the CAAZ.
In addition, foreigners must also obtain a Temporary Import Permit (TIP) from the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority after receiving approval from the CAAZ.
Notes for recreational drone pilots flying for fun in Zimbabwe
See general rules above.
Notes for Commercial Drone Services operations in Zimbabwe
See general rules above.
Useful published information on flying drones in Zimbabwe
Here is a useful introduction video by CAANZ and Airshare NZ on flying a drone legally in Zimbabwe…
NOTE: Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (SUAS), Small UAS, Remote Piloted Aerial Systems (RPAS), unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), Unmanned Aerial System (UAS), and drone are interchangeable terms unless specified. Model aircraft, toy aircraft, Remote controlled aircraft, and RC aircraft may be covered by the same regulations unless specified.
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