Perhaps this is a good time to remind holiday makers and visitors to South Africa’s tourist resorts that authorities in these places frown upon anybody flying a drone without express permission.
This follows a recent incident where visitors caught flying a drone at Kruger National Park in Mpumalanga were fined for flouting the national park’s no-fly zone rules.
At this point, it is worth mentioning that Kruger National Park is one of the more than 1,500 environmentally protected areas in South Africa, and it is always best to ask first before taking a drone into these areas.
SanParks controls 22 National Parks and they have strict controls in place when it comes to drones and only allows fully registered RPAS pilots to operate subject to certain fees and conditions.
These particular visitors’ situation came to light when a video posted on the social media platform now known as X (formerly Twitter) showing one of them reaching out to pick up a drone on the ground from an SUV vehicle.
Unluckily for them, they were spotted by a tour guide who reported the matter to protection services at the park.
A SANParks spokesperson said the visitors were fined a minimum of R1,500 for breaking the rules.
“In South Africa, drones are regulated by the South African Civil Aviation Authority,” the wildlife authority proclaims on its website.
"Flying drones in national parks or conservation areas is generally not allowed without a special permit and permission.
“This is to ensure that drones are operated safely and responsibly. These regulations are designed to protect the natural and cultural resources of these areas, as well as to ensure the safety and enjoyment of visitors.”
The parks authority dissuades people from flying drones around game parks, ostensibly for the reason that the drones can be disruptive to wildlife and other visitors, while the noise and presence of a drone can be stressful to animals, especially if they are flown too close.
The drones' presence can also potentially cause animals to behave unpredictably or even become aggressive.
“Moreover, poachers can misuse drones to help them with illegal activities in protected areas. Drones can be used to find and follow endangered animals, making it easier for poachers to target them.
“They can also use drones to scout the area and avoid park rangers, finding escape routes or less-monitored spots.”
PS: The featured picture has nothing to do with the visitors caught at Kruger National Park; in that image is Catherine Sibale; a game ranger at Kasungu National Park in Malawi; where they use drone technology to help with wildlife conservation operations.