Model plane pilots in a flap over ban on drones

PORT Elizabeth's radio-controlled model aircraft fraternity is in a flap over a new Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) order which has effectively grounded autonomously operated aircraft, also known as drones, until new guidelines and legislation have been drawn up.

The drones have raised questions due to their capabilities to carry small payloads and more commonly, to take photographs and stream live video footage.

The CAA's sudden ban of the aircraft early last week has sown confusion among owners, operators and retailers of the products, primarily because the CAA's initial ban was directed at all photo-enabled craft and because, due to the wide variety of craft available, there is uncertainty over how each model is classified. - Shaun Gillham