SACAA: private operations only in R-VLOS with a Class 1A or 1B UAS (under 7 kg)

In plain language

SACAA guidance states that a private operation is the use of a UAS for an individual's personal and private purposes with no commercial outcome, interest or gain, and that private operations may be conducted only in restricted visual line of sight (within 500 m of the remote pilot and below the height of the highest obstacle within 300 m of the UA, day and night) with a Class 1A or 1B UAS (mass < 7 kg, impact energy < 15 kJ).

Requirement as structured

SACAA guidance states that a private operation is the use of a UAS for an individual's personal and private purposes with no commercial outcome, interest or gain, and that private operations may be conducted only in restricted visual line of sight (within 500 m of the remote pilot and below the height of the highest obstacle within 300 m of the UA, day and night) with a Class 1A or 1B UAS (mass < 7 kg, impact energy < 15 kJ).

Original regulatory text

Private Operations Definitions: Private operation – means the use of an UAS for an individual’s personal and private purposes where there is no commercial outcome, interest or gain; Restricted visual line-of-sight* – means an operation within 500 m of the remote pilot and below the height of the highest obstacle within 300 m of the UA, which the remote pilot maintains direct unaided visual contact with the UAS to manage its flight and meet separation and collision avoidance responsibilities; General It is the full responsibility of the remote pilot of the UAS to fly his/her aircraft safely and not endanger safety of another aircraft, any person or property. The remote pilot must observe all statutory requirements relating to liability, privacy and any other laws enforceable by any other authorities. Limitations and restrictions Please adhere to the following for the safe operation of UAS: Private operations of UAS shall be conducted: only in R-VLOS (day and night) with a Class 1A or 1B UAS (mass < 7 kg, Impact energy* < 15 kJ)

Applies when

scope

private_operation

caveat

SACAA 'private operation': personal and private purposes with no commercial outcome, interest or gain. Not applicable to commercial, corporate or non-profit use.

purpose

recreational