Drones sector urges changes to aviation legislation as government recognises its importance

THE Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or drones sector has encouraged the Department of Transport (DOT) to consider updated air traffic control legislation within cities and rural areas to allow for longer range flights in the delivery of critical goods.

- BANELE GININDZA

This is as the DOT, in its reminder to all stakeholders regarding the fast approaching closing date for comments regarding the gazetted Airfreight Strategy of South Africa acknowledged the usage of drones or UAVs in the provision of seamless services and movement of goods in the airfreight sub-sector.

DOT national spokesperson Collen Msibi said the assessment revealed a critical challenge: while passenger and commercial aviation have made significant advances, the airfreight sub-sector remains relatively underdeveloped and fragmented.

This limits the country's trade and logistical capabilities, highlighting the need for a more integrated and efficient airfreight network to unlock its full potential.