BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – The Eswatini Civil Aviation Authority (ESWACAA) has raised alarm over the increasing illegal use of drones across the country, particularly in the agriculture and photography sectors.
In a press statement, ESWACAA reminded the public, NGOs, and companies that all commercial drone operations require prior authorization from the Authority. Operators must secure both an Air Transport License and Unmanned Aircraft Vehicle approval before deploying drones for business use. Private drones also need to be registered with the Authority.
ESWACAA stressed that companies hiring drone operators are responsible for ensuring that those operators are properly licensed and compliant with aviation safety standards.
“Companies, NGOs, and the general public are notified that for commercial use of drones, an approval/authorisation must be obtained from the Authority,” the statement reads. “We further request that all companies that engage operators must ensure that their operators have complied with requirements from ESWACAA.”
The warning comes amid growing concerns that drone technology, while useful for modern farming, surveying, and media work, is being widely deployed without adherence to safety and legal standards. ESWACAA has reiterated that even private drone owners are not exempt, as all drones must be registered with the Authority to ensure traceability and accountability.
Industry experts note that drones, if improperly operated, can interfere with manned aircraft, damage property, or infringe on personal privacy. Several countries, including Eswatini’s neighbours, have introduced strict drone regulations to mitigate these risks.
Failure to comply with these regulations carries serious legal consequences under the Civil Aviation Act of 2022. Anyone found guilty of operating drones illegally faces a fine of up to E50 000 or imprisonment of up to five years. For repeat offenders, the penalties are harsher, with fines of up to E100 000 or a prison term of up to 10 years.
“These measures are in place to ensure safety, accountability, and order in Eswatini’s airspace,” the statement emphasized. “We urge all individuals and organizations to comply with drone registration and licensing requirements.”
The Authority also expressed appreciation for public cooperation in safeguarding the aviation industry, while encouraging enquiries on authorization requirements to be directed to phetsile@eswacaa.co.sz or wakhile.nxumalo@eswacaa.co.sz.
With the rise in drone usage for both commercial and personal purposes, ESWACAA’s warning serves as a strong reminder that unlicensed operations will not be tolerated.
(Courtesy Pic)
