Operating Rules for Drones in Mexico- What Are They?

The Operating Rules for Drones in Mexico outline essential guidelines for safe and compliant drone use. Established by the Agencia Federal de Aviación Civil (AFAC), these rules apply to all operators—recreational, commercial, or governmental—and help maintain a safe airspace. Below, we cover the primary operating rules, examples of compliant practices, and answers to common questions.

Key Operating Rules for Drones in Mexico

1. Operating Rules for Recreational Drone Operations in Mexico

Recreational operators are required to follow basic safety guidelines to ensure public safety while enjoying personal flights.

• Maximum Altitude: Recreational drones must stay within a height limit of 120 meters (393 feet) above ground level
• Visual Line of Sight (VLOS): The drone must remain within the operator’s direct line of sight without the use of visual aids like binoculars
• Restricted Zones: Flying near airports, military bases, government buildings, or crowded areas is prohibited without special permissions
• Night Flying: Recreational drones are not allowed to fly at night
• Weather Conditions: Operators should avoid flying in adverse weather conditions, including high winds, rain, or fog

Example of Recreational Compliance: A hobbyist captures scenic photos in a park, keeping the drone within VLOS and below the altitude limit. The operator checks AirMap for nearby restricted zones before flying.

2. Operating Rules for Commercial Drone Operations in Mexico

Commercial operators must follow stricter rules due to the increased risks associated with professional drone use. Commercial operations cover a range of activities, including real estate photography, media production, and agricultural monitoring.

• Maximum Altitude: Commercial drones are also limited to 120 meters unless they receive special authorization from AFAC
• Visual Line of Sight (VLOS): Commercial flights must generally remain within VLOS unless BVLOS authorization is obtained
• Restricted Zone Permissions: Commercial flights near restricted zones require prior permission from AFAC and, when applicable, SEDENA
• Night Operations: Night flights require special AFAC authorization, and drones must be equipped with anti-collision lights visible from at least 3 nautical miles
• Insurance Requirement: Liability insurance is mandatory to cover any potential damages or accidents caused during commercial operations
• Weather Conditions: Commercial operators must monitor weather closely and avoid flights in adverse conditions

Example of Commercial Compliance: A real estate company conducting aerial photography near an urban area ensures it has the necessary AFAC permissions, keeps the drone within VLOS, and operates below the 120-meter altitude limit.

3. Operating Rules for Governmental and Emergency Drone Operations in Mexico

Governmental and emergency operations are often conducted for public safety, disaster relief, or national security. Due to the critical nature of these missions, governmental operators may have flexibility but still must adhere to essential guidelines.

• Emergency Flexibility: In emergency situations, drones may operate beyond standard limitations, including BVLOS and night flights if essential for public safety
• Coordination with AFAC and SEDENA: Governmental operators must coordinate with AFAC and SEDENA to obtain permissions, particularly for operations in restricted or sensitive areas
• Special Equipment: Drones used in emergency or governmental missions typically require advanced technology like detect-and-avoid systems to enhance operational safety
• Weather Conditions: Drones may operate in challenging weather conditions if necessary, but operators are expected to assess and manage risks carefully

Example of Governmental Compliance: During a flood response, a government team uses drones to assess damage, flying in restricted airspace with SEDENA’s clearance. The drones are equipped with night-vision technology for night operations.

Examples of Compliant Operating Practices

• Commercial Use: A real estate firm checks restricted airspace on AirMap before a drone shoot, respects the 120-meter altitude cap, and uses a drone equipped with RTH.
• Recreational Use: A hobbyist flying in an open park keeps the drone within visual line of sight and checks the weather in advance to avoid high winds.
• Governmental Use: During emergency response, a government agency secures night flight authorization from AFAC and uses drones with anti-collision lighting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I fly my drone at night for recreational use?
   • No. Night flights require AFAC authorization and are generally permitted for commercial or governmental operations only.
2. What should I do if my drone loses signal?
   • If equipped, the drone’s RTH function will automatically return it to a pre-set location. RTH-capable drones are recommended for added safety.
3. Can I fly in public parks or populated areas?
   • Only with the proper permissions. Crowded or densely populated areas are restricted without authorization to minimize safety risks.
4. Is it allowed to fly in poor weather if I have advanced equipment?
   • No. Regardless of equipment, adverse weather increases safety risks and can compromise control.
5. Are there specific apps to help check restricted zones?
   • Yes, apps like AirMap and DJI FlySafe offer real-time restricted zone data, aiding in compliant flight planning.

Summary

Following the Operating Rules for Drones in Mexico ensures safe, responsible drone use while complying with AFAC’s guidelines. These rules protect public safety and minimize the risk of interference with manned aircraft.