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The Civil Aviation Authority of the Cayman Islands (CAACI) would like to remind the public of the risks to aviation and public safety in general which come from the flying of small unmanned aircraft (also known as drones or unmanned aerial vehicles) kites, sky lanterns and firework displays which are received as presents or used as a part of the holiday festivities.

Small Unmanned Aircraft (SUA)

Each operator is legally responsible for the safe conduct of each flight. Prior to each flight be sure that your drone is undamaged and all components are working. Drones must be kept within your direct sight at all times and it is your responsibility for avoiding collisions with other people or objects. Do not fly your unmanned aircraft in any way that could endanger people or property.

As a protective measure, “no‐fly” zones, were introduced in February 2015 and it is illegal to fly an unmanned aircraft within 3 nautical miles of Owen Roberts International Airport (Grand Cayman), Charles Kirkconnell International Airport (Cayman Brac) and Edward Bodden Airfield (Little Cayman) without a specific written permission issued by the CAACI. In addition, a “no fly” zone has also been established around HM Prison Northward and it is illegal to fly an unmanned aircraft within 1 nautical mile of the Prison perimeter without the specific written permission of the Director of Prisons.

To operate your drone/SUA for commercial purposes, the operator must be in possession of a current permission issued by the CAACI. Permission will ensure the competence of the operator to provide a safe service and will require him/her to be medically fit and hold “adequate third-party liability insurance”. Any organisation or individual undertaking commercial aerial work without such permission required may be guilty of an offence and liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding $3,400. The application for a Permission to undertake aerial work should be made on the application form which can be found at the following link: https://www.caacayman.com/wp-content/uploads/LIST%20OF%20REQUIREMENTS%20FOR%20CAACI%20SUADRONE%20PERMISSION.pdf

Any company requesting the use of a drone/SUA for aerial footage for commercial purposes should ensure that the operator is approved by the CAACI. A full list of all approved drone operators can be found here: https://www.caacayman.com/wp-content/uploads/pdf/SUA-Operators.pdf

The CAACI is responsible to the Governor, for the oversight of the use of Small Unmanned Aircraft (SUA)/drones in the Cayman Islands as identified in the legislation of the Air Navigation (Overseas Territories) Order 2013, Article 73. The above national regulations have been developed for the use of SUA/drones, in keeping with the legislation, and identify the requirements applicable to the operation of these aircraft in the Cayman Islands.

Please ‘Safety Drone Video’: https://vimeo.com/611974687?embedded=true&source=vimeo_logo&owner=98238949