Question 1

What are the permits you need to fly in Singapore?

Accepted Answer

1. Operator’s Permit – An annual permit that CAAS issues to companies that are qualified to be UAV operators. Skyshot was one of the first companies in Singapore to be issued an operator permit.

2. Activity Permit - Issued by CAAS for any commercial drone activities. Skyshot will make the necessary arrangements to obtain this when an aerial project is confirmed. The permit will include information such as the flight window, location, and height restrictions.

3. Location Filming Permit - Depending on the location of the launch site, a general filming permit may be needed. For example, a filming permit from NParks may be required for filming in Singapore's parks. This is sometimes obtained by the clients themselves.

Question 2

I know how to fly a drone, can I apply for the activity permit?

Accepted Answer

The answer is no. Only companies that has a CAAS UAV operator's license can apply for the activity permit.

Question 3

What if the UAV activity permit is not approved, do I get charged?

Accepted Answer

We have a lot of experience with CAAS activity permit applications. This is because we have done many drone flights across different parts of Singapore. So before we take on a project, we will advice our clients if the proposed flight location may be approved by CAAS. Skyshot charge $250 for the UAV activity permit application. This is to cover for the cost of the application fees that CAAS charge, irregardless of the final approval.

Question 4

Is the UAV activity permit difficult to get?

Accepted Answer

Skyshot has conducted aerial drone filming across most of Singapore, so we are very familiar with CAAS drone regulations and restrictions. The CAAS activity permit approval depends on the filming location, flight path and the timing. For CAAS to approve the flight, several other government agencies are involved.

1. Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) – regarding sensitive locations like Istana, Parliament House, SAF camps, etc. - The specific locations are published in the Government Gazette and on the OneMap portal.

2. Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) – regarding military aerial activities

3. Maritime Port Authorities (MPA) – for flights over the waters of Singapore.

4. IMDA – regarding the usage of radio frequencies and power limits for drone flight controllers. Other agencies, such as NParks & LTA, may also be involved. It usually takes CAAS 1 to 2 weeks to issue the permit. CAAS is very helpful and proactive in the application process, but it will take them 1 to 2 weeks to approve the application.

Question 5

Q: Why does Skyshot operate with a two-person team for drone flights, and how does this comply with CAAS regulations?

Accepted Answer

Skyshot operates all commercial drone flights with a two-person team in strict compliance with CAAS regulations. Each flight includes a dedicated UAV pilot and a spotter who maintains visual line of sight, monitors airspace and ground risks, and assists with situational awareness. This approach enhances operational safety, ensures regulatory compliance, and allows the pilot to focus fully on precise, high-quality aerial capture.

Question 6

Q: What are the flight limitations for drones, and how do they ensure compliance with regulations?

Accepted Answer

Skyshot adheres strictly to CAAS regulations, which limit our drone's maximum flight distance of 500 meters from the operator. The maximum operating height varies depending on the location, typically between 60 and 300 meters. These measures ensure safe, compliant, and professional drone services tailored to each project while prioritising safety and regulatory compliance.

Question 7

What happens if it rains on the day of shoot?

Accepted Answer

We try our best apply for at least a 7-day UAV activity permit, to cater for alternative flight dates in case of inclement weather. The 7-day flight windows give us flexibility for planning and execution.

Question 8

Can I fly a drone indoors?

Accepted Answer

Flying indoors is possible; however, it depends on factors such as ceiling height, ground obstacles, and human traffic. A CAAS UAV activity permit is still needed. Therefore, we recommend doing a site recce beforehand to assess the location’s suitability. FPV drones, which are lightweight and palm-sized, also make indoor flying much safer thanks to propeller guards. An alternative, safer method is to use our Posmo. The Osmo provides stability, and the pole provides the height needed. It is a stabilised camera attached to a pole, operated manually by a single operator. We can get an aerial shot about 3 meters above ground level in crowded spaces without endangering the public. Watch Video

Question 9

Can I fly a drone for a public event?

Accepted Answer

Skyshot has done aerial filming for events like the DBS Regatta and OCBC Cycle. For safety reasons, CAAS does not allow drone flights directly above public walking spaces. Careful planning of the flight path is thus required to prevent any danger to the public. Here is an example of an aerial video for a public event.

Question 10

I need aerial filming done near an airport, can it be done? "

Accepted Answer

Skyshot has developed 2 aerial platforms, the Crane Cam and a tethered drone, for locations where drones are not allowed.

1. The Crane Cam is a remote control DSLR camera system that is hoisted by an industrial crane. Operated by a 2-man team, the Crane-cam is used on several projects, including the LTA road construction project near Paya Lebar Airbase. The project requires monthly aerial photos to document the construction progress. Using the Crane Cam, we can overcome drone no-fly zones.

2. The second solution is the tethered drone. We use it extensively across several projects, such as Pulau Tekong & Changi East. These sites are within the Changi Airport's "drone no-fly zones"