Drone Rules for Conceição do Araguaia Airport
Fly Status: Strictly Prohibited. The Conceição do Araguaia Airport (SBAA) is an active aeronautical facility. Per the updated DECEA ICA 100-40 regulations (effective July 1, 2026), any operation of unmanned aircraft (drones/RC models) near an aerodrome is strictly regulated.
Explanation The Conceição do Araguaia Airport is an active infrastructure hub. As of mid-2026, the new ICA 100-40 has centralized the management of all unmanned aircraft. There is no longer a distinction between "recreational" and "professional" flight regarding airspace access; all drones, regardless of weight (including sub-250g models), now require prior authorization through the SARPAS NG system to enter the national airspace.
Core Requirements for 2026 (Brazil):
Mandatory SARPAS NG: As of July 1, 2026, you cannot legally fly any drone or RC model in the national airspace without an approved flight request. Near an airport, these requests are highly scrutinized and often denied to protect crewed flight paths.
Safety Perimeter: Regulatory standards impose a massive safety buffer (typically up to 9 km from airport runway axes). Flying within this "Red Zone" without explicit institutional coordination is a violation of federal safety protocols.
ANAC SISANT Registration: All models/drones weighing over 250g must be registered in the SISANT system. You must carry proof of registration and have identification tags affixed to your aircraft.
Operational Risk: Disruption of airport operations can lead to immediate equipment seizure, fines exceeding R$ 30,000, and potential criminal liability.
How to be "Socially Accepted" Do Not Fly at the Airport: The airport is an infrastructure facility, not a hobbyist playground. Unauthorized flight here is perceived as a reckless endangerment of aviation safety.
Use Official Tools: Always verify your intended flight zone on the SARPAS NG Portal. If the area is marked as restricted (red), do not attempt to fly.
Join a Club: Seek out federated aeromodelling clubs. Clubs provide sanctioned, insurance-covered environments that are recognized by DECEA and COBRA (Confederação Brasileira de Aeromodelismo), ensuring you are flying legally and safely.