The South African government has unveiled a draft strategy to tighten oversight of drone activity, introducing measures such as mandatory registration and the creation of drone-specific air corridors. The Department of Transport published the proposal for public comment, signaling a shift toward risk-based regulation and the development of a broader drone ecosystem. The initiative is part of the Draft Airfreight Strategy for South Africa 2025, which outlines interventions aimed at modernizing the country’s airfreight and drone sectors.
Need for Reform
Currently, the South African Civil Aviation Authority regulates drone operations, but the department has identified structural limitations that slow down licensing and oversight. According to the draft strategy, the authority’s traditional regulatory approach, combined with limited capacity, has led to disorderly drone activity and growing instances of airspace infringement. Officials argue that drones and their operators are often not properly registered, and public awareness of safe operations remains low.
Registration and Monitoring
One of the most significant proposals is the creation of a national electronic drone register. All remotely piloted aircraft systems, whether distributed, sold, or operated in South Africa, would be logged in the system. The department also plans to require that drones meeting certain specifications carry tracking devices, enabling authorities to manage airspace access and ensure compliance. The Civil Aviation Authority would oversee the design and maintenance of this register, which is intended to function similarly to SIM card registration under South Africa’s RICA framework.
Risk-Based Classification
The strategy introduces a framework for classifying drone operations according to risk. Low-risk activities include small drones operating at low altitudes, while medium-risk covers drones flying over people or carrying objects. High-risk operations, such as those transporting hazardous goods or crossing borders, would be subject to the strictest oversight. This approach mirrors international best practices that tailor regulation to the risks posed by specific applications rather than applying uniform restrictions.
Development of Drone Corridors
A centerpiece of the strategy is the establishment of drone corridors, or “aerial highways,” to segregate drone operations from other air traffic. These corridors would be defined and approved by the National Airspace Committee, with operators able to apply for specific routes. Authorities suggest prioritizing corridors that link major economic hubs, while individual operators would manage first- and last-mile routes. Certification of operating rights within a corridor would depend on both operational risk and corridor conditions such as density and traffic flow.
Drone Ecosystem and Airspace Management
Beyond corridors, the department envisions building a complete drone ecosystem that includes dedicated traffic management systems, simplified operational certification, and specific “rules of the air” for drones. Unlike conventional air traffic control, drone management would account for high-density operations, autonomous avoidance, and advanced maneuverability. The government also proposes implementing levies on drones, particularly those used for commercial purposes, to support regulatory infrastructure and industry development.
Industry Applications and Security Use Cases
While drone use in airfreight remains nascent, the government emphasizes its potential to transform logistics and other sectors. Drones are already being adopted in industries such as agriculture, construction, and security, where they provide cost-effective alternatives to traditional methods. Private security companies in particular are exploring drones equipped with thermal imaging, high-zoom cameras, and artificial intelligence analytics to monitor high-risk areas in real time. Partnerships such as the one between Vumacam and Drone Force illustrate how integrated ground and aerial surveillance can enhance safety and operational efficiency.
South Africa’s draft strategy represents a significant step toward modernizing its drone landscape through structured regulation, technological integration, and industry alignment. By establishing a national register, introducing risk-based classifications, and creating drone corridors, the government aims to balance innovation with safety in a rapidly evolving sector. Public feedback on the proposals will shape the final framework, but the direction signals a clear intent to bring order and scalability to drone operations nationwide.