Flying Radio-Controlled Airplane Models

Flying radio-controlled airplane models in New Zealand can be an exciting hobby to take up because the country has breathtaking and magnificent landscapes to admire such as its very long beaches with beautiful sunsets that not only tourists can enjoy, but also enthusiasts of plane flying. Everyone will surely have the time of their life. You can fly your plane and take advantage of the great outdoors with its natural beauty that this island country has to offer. But are you wondering if you need a license to run a radio-controlled aircraft models? We will discuss that in just a bit.

Preparation Before you go Outdoors

You might end up spending hours outdoors enjoying the fine landscapes and doing your hobby so being prepared with the right set of the outfit and essential things will make your time very satisfying. Before heading out to a park to fly your plane, make sure you have something comfortable to wear based on the climate. You can wear a light woolen top to keep you warm in the cold weather. If it is sunny, don’t forget to bring your hat and sunglasses. The ozone layer is thin in New Zealand and the rays of the sun are strong so you will need skin protection. Wear a sun screen that has an SPF level of 30 or above.

Rules and Regulations for Flying Radio-Controlled Aircraft

The Civil Aviation Authority or CAA does not allow you to fly a radio-controlled plane if you do not have a permit. You first need to apply for a permit before you can freely fly in a park or in the countryside.

Just like in Thailand, which also has strict no-no on drone flying, flying a drone or an RC model airplane can get you into serious trouble in New Zealand. You will need to ask for the permission of the landowner on whose property you are flying and also get the permission from anyone and everyone present in the property or a park.

There are parks which have been specifically approved by the council to fly these aircrafts so if you happen to be in one of these parks it will not be an issue. Otherwise, you will need to inform or secure the permission of the local authorities before you fly.

What it Takes to be Certified?

To get certified by CAA is a costly affair for a normal holiday maker who’s looking to just have fun. But, if you are serious about flying and it is something which you would want to do daily without the consent of anyone you might want to get a license. If you are looking to get certified by the CAA to fly a drone or any remote controlled models, you will need $600.

Recent years have seen an increase in drone and RC model flying in the city and country which has increased safety and security concerns. More than the privacy of people, it is the safety that the council is worried about.