Safe Use of Jamaica’s Airspace

Jamaica’s airspace is managed through a structured system which ensures the safety of civilian air traffic and the integrity of national security operations. Oversight is provided by the Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority (JCAA), which manages civilian flight operations, and the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF), which is responsible for military protection of the skies.

Understanding how Jamaica’s airspace is managed is important for public knowledge, especially as drones are now widely used for both business and recreation.

Categories of Airspace

Civilian flights, which include commercial airlines, private aircraft and all non-state aviation are guided by established air traffic control standards and procedures under the JCAA. These protocols ensure aircraft follow designated routes and altitudes, keeping them safely separated from military operations. Military flights and state flights are exempt from the standard regulations that guide civilian flights.

Regarding military airspace, specific zones are designated for JDF training exercises, surveillance and other operations. These areas are clearly outlined and managed in coordination with the JCAA. Access depends on current operations and requires permission.

Public Use of Airspace

The use of unmanned aircrafts, such as drones, has become prevalent and continues to grow in the scope of activities for which they can be used. Drones are being used for photography, food delivery, window washing and even property surveillance. The following safety protocols ensure that civilian aerial activities are conducted safely and in compliance with national regulations.

Operators of all drones must:

• Fly below 400 feet.
• Use their devices at least 5km away from aerodromes and airports.
• Avoid crowds.
• Be registered with the JCAA if flight equipment weighs more than 15lbs/7Kg.
• Keep devices within their line of sight and avoid reckless behaviour or collisions.
• Avoid private property and public spaces such as Emancipation Park, without the permission of the property manager.

The leisure use of drones, being flown as a hobby or for recreation, does not require a permit. Drones operated for commercial use or any income-earning purpose must request a Special Aerial Work Permit from the JCAA. Drones being operated for non-commercial use, but within restricted areas must obtain authorisation from the JDF.

Paragliding and other civilian aerial activities are permitted within the guidelines of the Civil Aviation Regulations.

For additional information, contact:

Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority
Address: 4 Winchester Road, Kingston 10
Phone: 876-960-3948, 960-3965
Email: info@jcaa.gov.jm
Website: https://www.jcaa.gov.jm/contact-us/
Facebook: @JamaicaCivilAviationAuthority
X: @JCAA_NEWS
Instagram: @aviationjamaica

Jamaica Defence Force
Address: Up Park Camp, Kingston 5
Phone: 876-926-8121-9
Email: j9staff.jdf.mil@gmail.com
Website: https://www.jdfweb.com/
Facebook, Instagram: @jdfsoldier