Executive Summary of the Regulation for Operating Drones in the Dominican Republic
The operation of Small Remotely Piloted Aircraft, commonly known as drones, is regulated by Law 491-06 on Civil Aviation and the Aeronautical Regulations RAD-107 on the Small Remotely Piloted Aircraft System and RAD-48 on the Requirements for Registration and Labeling of Small Aircraft, issued by the Dominican Institute of Civil Aviation of the Dominican Republic (IDAC). Below is a summary of the most relevant aspects of the current regulations:
I. Small Remotely Piloted Aircraft System
Applicability and Definitions:
The regulation applies to any natural or legal person interested in the operation of RPAS and the certification of aeronautical personnel. It defines key terms such as "Remote Pilot Certificate," "Remote Pilot License," "Visual Observer," and "Small RPA."
Operational Rules:
It establishes the requirements to obtain a remote pilot license or certificate with small RPAS endorsement. It details the operator's responsibilities and conditions for safe operation. It includes rules on daytime operation, direct visual line of sight (VLOS), and operation near aerodromes and restricted areas.
Remote Pilot Certification:
It describes the requirements for issuing a remote pilot license or certificate, including eligibility, knowledge tests, and training courses. It establishes the conditions for validation and conversion of foreign licenses.
Exemptions:
It allows the issuance of exemption certificates for deviations from certain regulations under specific conditions.
II. Requirements for Registration and Labeling of Small Aircraft
Generalities:
Applies to small aircraft weighing more than 0.55 lb (0.25 kg) and less than 55 lb (25 kg). It establishes the criteria for operation and eligibility for registration.
RPAS Registration:
Every RPAS owner must register it with the IDAC National Aircraft Registry Department. It details the requirements to obtain and maintain the registration card, including the information the applicant must provide.
Aircraft Labeling:
Aircraft must display a registration label containing the registration number issued to the owner. The label must be visible and legible, and made of non-flammable material.
These documents are essential to ensure the safety and proper regulation of small remotely piloted aircraft in the Dominican Republic.
Sanctions:
Sanctions include fines, suspension or revocation of the remote pilot license, and other legal actions depending on the severity of the infraction.
Pilot License Regulation:
Another important aspect to highlight is the regulation for obtaining a pilot license. The regulation establishes the applicable requirements as follows:
a.- Must be at least 18 years old.
b.- Complete an initial training course approved by IDAC;
c.- Be able to read, speak, write, and understand Spanish.
d.- Not have a condition that interferes with the safe operation of the aircraft.
e.- Demonstrate aeronautical knowledge by passing an initial test or completing a training course if already holding a pilot license.
To apply for the license, it is required to pass an initial aeronautical knowledge exam and present a certificate of having completed the initial training if already holding a pilot license.
Criticisms:
Some criticisms of the current regulation include the lack of controls regarding continuous pilot training and the simplification of the licensing processes, which can be very cumbersome for beginners.
Operational Considerations:
Those interested in operating drones in the country should note that the regulations are not very precise regarding the types of airspaces where RPAS operation is allowed and prohibited. To avoid confusion and ensure operational safety, it is recommended to inform the authorities before start to obtain the permits.
Mesa Abogados