The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has announced plans to introduce a comprehensive programme to regulate the use of drones, with a special focus on those used for commercial purposes.
Director General of Civil Aviation, Captain Daminda Rambukwella, said that all drones with commercial value will be required to be registered under the new regulatory framework. He explained that the CAA is responsible for regulating both manned aerial vehicles and unmanned aerial systems, including drones.
“There are two main categories—drones that carry people and unmanned drones. The Civil Aviation Authority has already introduced regulations governing their controlled operation, and these will be fully implemented from this year,” he said.
Captain Rambukwella noted that although the regulations were introduced two years ago, their practical implementation is now set to begin. He further explained that drones weighing between 250 grams and 25 kilograms and used for commercial purposes will fall under CAA regulation.
“Drones below 250 grams, which are generally considered toys, will not be regulated unless they are used commercially. The Authority’s focus is on regulating drones of 250 grams and above when used for commercial activities,” he added.
He also pointed out that separate regulations are already in place for the import and export of drones, and users are required to comply with those procedures accordingly.
