The Chilean agency responsible for drone safety, DGAC, has provided several internet-accessible details on flying for fun or work. The highlights are enumerated below. For more details, go to the link above.
Are drones allowed in Chile?
DGAC states that drone use is allowed in Chile, subject to DGAC regulations. Read on for more details.
Here are the most important rules for flying a drone in Chile.
To fly a drone in Chile, you must register the aircraft and request authorization from the DGAC.
You may only fly one unmanned aerial vehicle at a time.
Never fly at night or in inclement weather.
Avoid flying your drone beyond your line of sight or 500 meters (1,640 feet) from the operator.
Do not fly more than 130 meters above the ground (426 feet).
You must fly at least 20 meters (65 feet) above and 30 meters (98 feet) away from individuals not involved in the drone operation.
Avoid flying over areas where firefighters are working.
Avoid flying within a two-kilometer (1.2-mile) radius of an airport.
Avoid flying over highly sensitive areas such as government or military installations.
Flying is prohibited in Torres del Paine National Park and other areas designated as “no-drone zones.”
Registration
Anyone flying a drone in Chile must obtain a registration card, operating authorization, and RPAS remote pilot credentials from the DGAC.
To register, please get in touch with the DGAC with the following information:
Manufacturer and country of origin
The manufacturer’s name, the model, and the serial number
Motorization type
Maximum weight for take-off.
Specifications of integrated technical equipment
Functions of autonomous flight
10 x 15 cm color photograph of the UAV (jpeg format).
Demonstration of the emergency parachute in action.
After submitting this information, you will receive a registration card, which you should always keep when flying. This registration will be valid for 12 months and must be renewed.
DGAC Drone Registration Link
Licensing
To obtain a DGAC license authorizing you to fly, you must:
Be at least 18 years old.
Submit an affidavit before a notary stating that you have received theoretical and practical instruction on the drone model you will fly.
You must pass the written DAN 151, DAN 91, Meteorology, and Aerodynamics exams. Passing requires a minimum of 75% of the candidates.
The credentials will be valid for 12 months before being revalidated.
DGAC Drone License Request Link
Penalties
The nature and severity of your infraction will determine the amount and scope of the fine. The judges will also consider whether you committed the violation on purpose and for commercial gain. You could face fines of up to $36,000.