Drone Rules for Tubarão Port Complex
Controlled industrial airspace over the Port of Tubarão complex. Drone flights are restricted and require mandatory pre-authorization from DECEA via SARPAS NG due to critical infrastructure and immediate proximity to the Vitória Airport approach corridors.
The Port of Tubarão, operated by Vale, is one of the largest bulk cargo ports in the world, handling massive volumes of iron ore, coal, and steel. The facility features heavy industrial machinery, extensive railway networks, high-voltage power lines, and automated conveyor systems, making it a highly sensitive critical infrastructure zone.
Furthermore, the port sits directly beneath and adjacent to the active air traffic control zones and approach funnels for Vitória Airport (SBVT). Because of the combined risks of low-flying commercial aircraft and hazardous industrial environments, spontaneous drone flights are completely restricted. Pilots must obtain airspace clearance from DECEA. Additionally, due to private property security and international port safety regulations (ISPS Code), any drone operation launching from or flying over the facility's land or marine terminals requires explicit authorization from Vale's corporate security and port authority.
Regulatory Authorities: DECEA (Department of Airspace Control), ANAC (National Civil Aviation Agency), and Vale S.A. Port Administration.
Primary Framework: Air Force Command Instruction ICA 100-40, ANAC RBAC-E No. 94, and the ISPS Code (International Ship and Port Facility Security Code).
Flight Planning Portal: Airspace access requests must be submitted and cleared via DECEA's SARPAS NG platform prior to coordinating with the port facility.