The Trinidad and Tobago agency responsible for drone safety, TTCAA, has provided several details on flying for fun or work. The highlights are enumerated below. For more details, go to the link above.
Are drones allowed in Trinidad and Tobago?
According to TTCAA, drones are allowed in Trinidad and Tobago, subject to TTCAA regulations. Read on for more details.
Here are the most important rules to know for flying a drone in Trinidad and Tobago:
In Trinidad and Tobago, drones are divided into five categories:
Category 1 UA: maximum take-off weight up to 750 grams.
Category 2 UA: take-off weight of more than 750 grams, and less than 20 kilograms, and a maximum speed of 40 m / s.
Category 3 UA: take-off weight of more than 750 grams, and less than 20 kilograms, and a speed of more than 40 m / s.
Category 4 UA: From a weight of 20 kilograms and less than 100 kilograms.
Category 5 UA: All other unmanned aerial vehicles that do not fall into the four categories above.
Regardless of their weight or purpose, all drones must be registered with the Civil Aviation Authority (TTCAA). The only exception is if you are recreationally flying a category 1 UA multi-copter.
The CAA requires that all drones weighing 750 grams (1.6 pounds) or more be registered.
All drone operations require a license, and the type of license needed varies according to the drone’s weight and whether the operation is recreational or commercial.
Except for drones weighing less than 750 grams, drones may not be flown more than 120 meters (400 feet) above the ground (1.6 pounds). In addition, drones weighing less than 750 grams (1.6 pounds) cannot fly higher than 30 meters (100 feet).
While flying, drone pilots must maintain a direct visual line of sight with their drones.
Drones used for commercial purposes must be insured against liability.
Without their permission, drones may not be flown over people.
Drones are not permitted to be flown in No-Fly Zones.
The maximum altitude for Category 1 drones is 30 meters (100 feet). The copter may climb to a maximum height of 120 feet in all other categories (400 feet).
Registration requirements for drone flying in Trinidad and Tobago?
For registrations or inquiries, please get in touch with the TTCAA at email: drones@caa.gov.tt.
Regardless of their weight or purpose, all drones must be registered with the Civil Aviation Authority (TTCAA). The only exception is if you are recreationally flying a category 1 UA multi-copter.
Otherwise, complete the registration forms and submit them with a processing fee. You will then receive a Certificate of Registration, which you should always carry while flying your drone.
The current law recognizes foreign registrations.
Along with registration, you must apply for an operator’s license, which must fall under one of the above categories.
Private users are exempt from this requirement only if they fly in a registered drone club, under the supervision of a qualified pilot, or on privately owned land with the owner’s permission.