$1M fine, jail term for drone violations, aviation authority warns

The Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) on Sunday warned that drone operators who violate national regulations could face fines of up to $1 million and/or up to two years in prison.

In a statement, the GCAA said irresponsible drone use poses serious risks to public safety, national security, and personal privacy, stressing that compliance with aviation laws is mandatory.

The authority said operators are prohibited from flying over private or public property without permission, within 150 metres of congested areas or organised gatherings, or within 100 metres of vessels, vehicles, or structures not under their control. Operators must also maintain a minimum distance of 50 metres from people, property, or structures unless written authorisation is granted.

Violations will result in prosecution, permit suspension, and enforcement under existing regulations. The GCAA is urging the public to report unauthorised or unsafe drone activity to the police or the GCAA safety hotline.