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.

We have extensive experience with CAAS activity permit applications. This is because we have done many drone flights across different parts of Singapore. Before we take on a project, we will advise our clients whether the proposed flight location may be approved by CAAS. Skyshot charge $300 for the UAV activity permit application. This is to cover the application fees CAAS charges, regardless of the final approval.

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.

At Skyshot, we recognise that cable management is critical when operating tethered drones at significant altitudes, as improper handling can lead to cable entanglement and operational risks. To mitigate this, we employ dedicated assistants trained specifically to manage the tether cables throughout the flight.

At Skyshot, we strictly adhere to regulations set by the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) regarding drone operations near airport runways and flight paths. Specifically, CAAS restricts drone flying height to approximately 30 to 40 meters in these sensitive areas. Although our tethered drones are equipped with cables that can extend up to 50 meters, we comply fully with the mandated height limits for the required permits. Additionally, the tethered drone's horizontal movement is inherently limited by the tether cable's physical constraints, ensuring safe, controlled flight operations. These restrictions are carefully managed to maintain safety without compromising the quality and reliability of our aerial services.

Skyshot applies for at least a 7-day UAV activity permit for every project to ensure flexibility in flight scheduling. This extended permit period allows us to plan alternative flight dates in case of inclement weather or other unforeseen delays. By securing a week-long flight window, we can adjust operations without compromising project timelines, ensuring reliable delivery for our clients.

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.