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Drone Flight Calculator

Calculate accurate flight times for your drone based on real-world conditions including wind, temperature, altitude, and terrain.

Updated December 5, 2025

South African Civil Aviation Authority

The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) regulates civil aviation safety and security under the Civil Aviation Act. SACAA oversees remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS), issues remote pilot licenses and aircraft operator certificates, enforces operational standards, coordinates airspace integration, and supports economic development through drone technology in mining, agriculture, wildlife conservation, and infrastructure inspection.

Regulator Overview

Basic information about South African Civil Aviation Authority

Full Name

South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA)

Established

1998

Type

National Aviation Authority

Jurisdiction

ZA

Alternative Names

SACAA, Civil Aviation Authority of South Africa

Notable Facts

Important information about drone regulations

Pioneer in African drone regulations with comprehensive RPAS framework since 2015
Three categories of Remote Pilot Licenses: RPC(S), RPC(A), and RPC(D)
Maximum altitude 120m AGL, extended permits available for specific operations
BVLOS operations require special flight operations certificate
Growing applications in mining, agriculture, and wildlife anti-poaching operations
Active member of ICAO working groups on unmanned aircraft systems

Unit Systems

Measurement units used in this regulator's jurisdiction

Weight

Grams (g)

Distance

Meters (m)

Altitude

Meters (m)

Speed

metric

Regulations

Current regulations and frameworks for drone operations

TitleEffective Date
Part 101 - Remotely Piloted Aircraft SystemsREG-2July 1, 2015
Civil Aviation Act No. 13 of 2009REG-1January 1, 2009

Official Resources

About this regulatory authority

Country

ZA

Region

National

Type

National Aviation Authority

Updated

12/5/2025

Contact Information

How to reach South African Civil Aviation Authority

Last updated: December 5, 2025