I am a freelance marketing specialist who started a media company servicing several different industries in the country. My business, like many others, needs to take advantage of every possible technology to stand out in a competitive environment. Businesses like mine have been severely crippled by the restrictive and costly process of providing drone related services under South Africa's current regulations. The financial investment and time required to operate legally outweighs the return, creating an unfavorable environment for small businesses and freelancers, often encouraging illegal operations which are rarely enforced in the country.

South Africa's current laws are more restrictive than countries like the USA where purchasing a registration for your aircraft, along with passing a detailed test proving your knowledge of air safety is sufficient to start operating a standard drone commercially. This stark difference not only hampers our growth but also stifles innovation within our industry. Drones are currently regulated in a manner that is very similar to manned aircraft, which makes little to no sense.

According to PwC, the global market value of drone-powered solutions is over $127 billion with infrastructure constituting about $45.2 billion (PwC, 2016). With such potential at stake, it is crucial that we establish a more cost-effective system that encourages rather than discourages operators. Taking advantage of this will definitely lead to several new jobs and businesses thriving within the industry.

We propose that South Africa reform its current laws to resemble those in places like the USA where they have proven effective at balancing safety concerns with commercial interests. By doing so, we can create an environment conducive for growth while ensuring safety standards are maintained. 

Please sign this petition if you believe in supporting small businesses and promoting innovation within our industry. Your signature can help us bring about much-needed change in South Africa's drone regulations.