The Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL) has announced that a comprehensive regulatory framework will be introduced to govern the use of drones in the country.
CAASL Director General Captain Daminda Rambukwella said all drones with commercial value will be required to be registered with the Authority.
He explained that drones are regulated under two main categories: passenger-carrying drones and unmanned drones. Regulations to ensure their safe and systematic operation have already been formulated, and their enforcement is scheduled to begin this year.
Captain Rambukwella noted that although the regulations were first introduced two years ago, they will now be actively enforced. Drones are classified into several categories based on weight, ranging from 250 grams to 25 kilograms.
He clarified that drones weighing below 250 grams, which are considered toys, will not fall under the regulatory framework. However, drones weighing 250 grams or more, as well as those used for commercial purposes, must comply with CAASL regulations.
He also said that separate guidelines are in place for the importation of drones, and such imports must be carried out in accordance with the relevant regulatory requirements.
