Drone Rules for Porto de Paranaguá
The airspace over the Complexo Portuário de Paranaguá e Antonina (Paranaguá, PR) is classified as a Restricted National Defense and Port Security Area. Recreational and hobbyist drone flights are completely banned. Technical, commercial, or press operations are permitted only under strict conditions.
The Porto de Paranaguá is the second-largest port in Brazil and the country's absolute leader in grain and vegetable oil exports. It handles massive infrastructure networks, including the dynamic Corredor de Exportação (Export Corridor), extensive liquid chemical terminals, and heavy bulk cargo berths.
Because it operates under international maritime protection protocols (ISPS Code), security here is exceptionally tight. Following the port authority's integrated management standards (PO-APPA-SGI-024), the entire customs-controlled (alfandegada) area is a designated flight restriction zone. Drones cannot be launched to capture casual scenery or ship movements. The complex mechanisms of high-speed grain conveyor belts, towering gantry cranes, and multi-frequency vessel radars mean unauthorized aircraft face immediate, severe risks of radio frequency disruption and subsequent catastrophic crashes.
To legally pilot a drone over the Paranaguá terminals for industrial, scientific, or media purposes, the operator must complete a rigid onboarding pipeline:
Pre-Registration: Submit the official Formulário de Autorização de Captação de Imagem com Drone to the port administration well in advance.
Credentials Package: Attach formal proof of pilot capability, the drone's ANATEL homologation, ANAC SISANT registration, and a valid RETA insurance policy (aviation liability).
Corporate Binding: Provide a formal work contract or letter proving direct ties to an authorized entity (e.g., terminal operator, shipping agency, or credentialed press).
Final Clearance: Upload the approved port document into DECEA's SARPAS NG portal to secure official tactical airspace release.
Flying an uncoordinated drone within the port limits will trigger a prompt intervention by the Port Guard (Guarda Portuária). The equipment will be immediately intercepted or electronic counter-measures applied. The pilot will be detained, blacklisted from port access, and referred to the Federal Police (Polícia Federal) and ANAC for severe federal and administrative prosecution.