🖐 In this blog post we’ll share all drone law links & known rules about recreational & commercial drone laws in Barbados (Bridgetown). Give a 👍 at the end of this post if you enjoyed it & feel free to ask any questions or share your experience in Barbados Drone Discussion Group. Keep in mind that the content below is updated to the best of our ability & does not replace official sources & your own research.
Recreational vs Commercial drone use in Barbados
Barbados does not differentiate commercial & recreational drone uses. Both uses have been severely restricted but it seems that a solution is on its way. However in every case, you will need to ask for a permission and a permit to fly.
🚨 For the moment, drone use is under the responsibility of the Barbados Civil Aviation Department (BCAD), they can be contacted via:
Email: civilav@barbados.gov.bb
Phone: (+246) 535-0001
Mail: Barbados Civil Aviation Department, Charnocks, Christ Church, BB16000
🚨 Barbados authorities have been notorious for having set a ban on all drone use since 2016. A lot of confusion occurs of its validity as initially set for one year, time for local authorities to set up regulations. Today (1st August 2019), this ban seems to have been lifted as this timeline will show you the country's tumultuous history with drone regulations:
9th March 2016: 1 year ban on drone importations until 1st April 2017 is installed.
4th September 2017: with a bit of delay, the ban was renewed until 31st March 2018.
9th May 2018: with less delay, the ban has again been renewed until 9th May 2019.
15 April 2019: updated drone importation ban until 1st April 2020
2nd May 2020: updated drone importation ban until 1st September 2020
🚨 Whilst there the ban is not effective strictly speaking, no regulations have been set within this time frame and drone importation bans have been extended in the past so there is a chance it may be extended once more...
Can I bring my drone to Barbados?
10.05.19 Update: Total drone importation ban is in place - more info
🚨 Unless you have a permit, it is not advisable to bring your drone in Barbados if simply flying for fun. This said (and to bring things more to reality), we're aware some travellers having been able to smuggle in drones for private use as customs seem little regarding to your bag's content.
🚨 Be aware of the airline you purchase to travel as some main ones will only accept your drone on-board if its batteries are detached & placed in a firecase during travel time. Most airlines will have a battery voltage limit based on the recommendation of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). You can find more info about a specific airline here.
💡 Smart! Get your drone batteries' firecase today and make sure you're complying with aviation safety rules.
How to apply for a permit to fly my drone in Barnados?
✅ There is some hope! Recently one of our members shared the good news that a license is possible providing that you complete some information ahead. The permit request happens after completing this online form where you will need to enter your personal details and your drone's technical information.
💲 The registration costs US$30 which you will need to pay by check and send by mail to: Barbados Civil Aviation Department, Charnocks, Christ Church, BB16000
💡 You can contact Winston Devonish who is the Chief Telecommunications Officer to help you in your application (His email is winston.devonish@telecoms.gov.bb).
💡 Smart! Pack some spare drone batteries, you never know how close is the next power plug overseas. Also make sure you have a travel adaptor for Barbados.
What do I risk for flying a drone illegally in Barbados?
The amount & scope of the fine will depend on the nature & severity of your infraction. The judges will also evaluate if you intentionally committed the infraction and/or if you had any commercial purposes to do such.
✅ The excellent news is that once you're there and got the authorisations, you can start flying above Barbados' awesome landscapes & create videos like this one:
✅Please leave a comment when you receive news and/or gain experience with your drone in Barbados! #barbados #regulation #law #laws #legislation #illegal
💡 You're a local, have a question or want to share a travel experience? Head to our Barbados Drone Discussion Group
Disclaimer: Although great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information researched, we take no responsibility for any loss, harm or damage caused as a direct or indirect consequence of relying on this information. It is your responsibility to seek advice from qualified local & relevant authorities for needed information about local drone regulations.
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