Agricultural drone licensing in South Africa: A guide for farmers
As agricultural drone technology becomes an essential tool for modern farming, understanding the licensing requirements in South Africa is critical for safe, effective and legal operations.
Afri Air, a trusted provider of agricultural drone solutions, is committed to helping South African farmers navigate the complex regulations and training processes required for drone use in agriculture.
Licensing essentials for agricultural drone operations
To operate drones for crop spraying or farmland monitoring, South African farmers must secure two key certifications:
- Remote Pilot Licence (RPL) – This certification demonstrates competency in drone operation and ensures adherence to safety protocols.
- Remote Operating Certificate (ROC) – This comprehensive approval requires detailed documentation of safety management systems, operating procedures and maintenance programmes.
These certifications are not merely regulatory requirements; they provide farmers with the confidence and knowledge to maximise the benefits of agricultural drones while safeguarding their investments.
Comprehensive training for farmers
Afri Air offers a holistic training programme designed to prepare farmers for successful drone operation and licensing.
Every agricultural drone purchase includes free, DJI-approved training that covers both theoretical and practical components:
- Theoretical training: Covers aviation regulations, air law, navigation principles and meteorological studies, ensuring farmers are well-versed in essential aspects of drone operation.
- Practical training: Provides hands-on experience with agricultural drones, focusing on pre-flight procedures, obstacle avoidance, efficient flight planning and specialised operations like crop spraying.
For crop spraying applications, additional training is available to obtain the required ROC licence. This training focuses on chemical handling, environmental safety and precision spraying techniques.
Ongoing support and skill maintenance
Afri Air’s commitment extends beyond initial certification.
Farmers benefit from:
- Technical assistance – ensuring seamless drone operation.
- Advanced training modules – helping farmers stay up-to-date with new techniques.
- Regulatory updates – keeping farmers informed of changes in Civil Aviation Authority regulations.
Group training options are also available, enabling entire farm teams to gain expertise in drone operations.
By prioritising training, certification and ongoing support, Afri Air ensures farmers can integrate drones seamlessly into their agricultural practices, improving efficiency and productivity while remaining compliant with Civil Aviation Authority regulations.
