Professional, Legal & Insured Drone Services
All RDT drone operations are conducted in full compliance with South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) regulations. Every pilot holds a Remote Pilot's Licence (RPL) and our aircraft are registered with SACAA. We hold an Air Service Licence (ASL No: G1326D) and a Remote Operating Certificate (ROC No: CAA/G1326D).
We carry full third-party liability insurance for all drone operations — giving you the peace of mind that your site and people are protected throughout every survey, inspection, or filming engagement.
Every RDT operation is governed by a comprehensive Field Operations Manual (FOM). The FOM defines our Standard Operating Procedures for pre-flight planning, emergency procedures, weather limits, crew roles, and post-flight reporting. It is reviewed annually and updated in line with CAA regulation changes.
Site-specific risk assessments are completed before every new location. Our crews are trained to conduct their own dynamic risk assessments during operations.
RDT holds authorisation to conduct the following special operations:
Operations within controlled airspace (CTR) with NOTAMs filed and coordination with ATC towers. Covers airport vicinities and designated control zones.
Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations for long-distance power line, pipeline and corridor inspections where extended range is required.
Approved night-time flying for surveillance, security, event coverage and agricultural spraying operations using equipped lighting systems.
Certified aerial application of agricultural chemicals, pesticides and liquid fertilisers under SACAA crop spraying approval and relevant Act 36 of 1947 requirements.
Operations within 30m of high-voltage power lines using ferro-magnetic resistant drones with redundant GPS and robust command and control systems.
Approved operations over or near people and gatherings for sporting events, concerts, film productions and news coverage.
All RDT pilots are Remote Pilot Licence (RPL) holders with practical experience across multiple industries. Our crews undergo regular proficiency checks and recurrent training to maintain their knowledge of the latest regulations and technology.
Our pilots are trained for the specific demands of the operations they conduct — from advanced aerial application techniques for crop spraying to thermal data collection protocols for solar inspections.
RDT invests in the best aerial platforms and sensor technology available to ensure your deliverables meet the highest standards. Data is typically processed and delivered within 48 hours of flying.