Belize Moves to Regulate Drones

As drones become more common in Belize, authorities are moving to keep the country’s crowded skies safe. Many are used in construction, agriculture, real estate, and media, but with low-flying planes and busy tourism routes, these small aircraft can pose serious safety risks.

The Department of Civil Aviation has launched a public consultation on new rules for drones. Nigel Carter, Director of Civil Aviation, said the operational directive will replace the current patchwork of approvals, require licensing, limit where drones can fly, and align Belize with international standards.

“The primary area of concern is aircraft safety,” Carter said. “In Belize, aeroplanes often operate at about 500 feet even when en route. We have to be very careful not to mix manned and unmanned aircraft in the same vicinity, lest we reduce the level of safety.”

The rules will cover recreational and commercial drone use, as drones have become essential tools for farmers, surveyors, and businesses using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to map land, monitor crops, and manage fields more efficiently.

Jose Antonio Texocotitla, a drone course trainer, said his programmes aim to give participants the knowledge and skills to handle drones safely in agricultural settings. “We start with a drone overview, covering components, handling, assembling, and disassembly, as well as regulations from the Ministry of Civil Aviation,” he said.

Drone operators are raising red flags because these rules aren’t optional. The directive would carry the full force of law, and noncompliance could result in penalties. 

Carter explained that the public consultation process is a key part of implementing the rules. “We are receiving information and concerns from the drone-operating public. After reviewing those, we will meet with operators to explain where we stand on each issue,” he said.

“If we don’t protect manned aviation, it could be disastrous. It could have severe socioeconomic impacts on Belizean society,” Carter said.