REGULATION OF DRONE USE IN BOLIVIAN AIRSPACE

LEGAL FRAMEWORK FOR DRONE USE IN BOLIVIA

Article 316, paragraph 11 of the Bolivian Constitution (CPE) establishes that the State is responsible for regulating aeronautical activity within national airspace. This includes all airspace above the national territory, reaffirming State control over any aerial operations. This authority is especially relevant for drone usage, allowing the government to regulate operations in order to ensure public safety and uphold fundamental rights.

In Bolivia, drone operations are governed by civil aviation regulations issued by the Dirección General de Aeronáutica Civil (DGAC). The key regulatory instrument is Regulatory Bulletin No. DGAC/107/2020, dated November 23, 2020. This bulletin outlines essential aspects such as registration, operational categories, flight rules, and penalties.

APPLICATION SCOPE

• The regulations apply to drones with a takeoff weight between 200 grams and 35 kg.
• Recreational drones weighing less than 200 grams and model aircraft (aeromodelling) are excluded from the scope.

MANDATORY REGISTRATION

• All drones must be registered with the DGAC to obtain a registration number, which must be visibly displayed on the equipment.
• The operator must be at least 18 years old to complete the registration process.

OPERATIONAL CATEGORIES

• Recreational use: No express authorization is required if the drone weighs less than 6 kg. However, general operational rules must still be followed.
• Aerial work: Includes activities such as filming, topographic surveys, cargo transport, and other commercial uses. These operations require prior authorization by submitting a form to the DGAC.

FLIGHT RULES

• Drones must be flown within the pilot’s direct line of sight (VLOS) and may not exceed an altitude of 400 feet (120 meters) above ground level.
• Night flights are prohibited without specific authorization.
• Flying near aerodromes, government facilities, or restricted zones is also prohibited.
• Aerial work operations, night flights, and special activities require a formal request to the DGAC at least 10 business days before the intended flight. The request must include detailed information about the operator, the drone, and the purpose of the flight.

PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES

• Transporting hazardous materials or performing spraying or object-dropping activities without permission is forbidden.
• Operating drones from moving vehicles or under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited.
• All incidents must be reported to the DGAC within 72 hours, according to the regulatory bulletin.

PENALTIES FOR NON-COMPLIANCE

• Violations of the regulations may lead to penalties under the Sanctions and Infractions Regulation of Law 2902 on Civil Aviation. Sanctions may include the suspension of licenses or authorizations, as well as monetary fines.

These regulations are designed to ensure safe operations aligned with both national and international standards. Bolivia’s regulatory framework for drone usage continues to evolve to meet the demands of this growing technology. The combination of clear rules, public awareness, and effective oversight is key to promoting responsible and safe drone use, benefiting various sectors of society.