Drone Rules for Alto da Serra
Fly Status: Hazardous/Restricted Public Zone. Pico Agudo (most notably in Santo Antônio do Pinhal, SP, and Sapopema, PR) is a famous free-flight mountain range for paragliding and hang gliding. It is not an aeromodelling facility. Per 2026 ICA 100-40 and EASA/ANAC standards, uncoordinated RC flight here is dangerous.
Explanation Pico Agudo is a high-altitude "hotspot" for human-piloted free flight. The airspace is actively utilized by paragliders and hang gliders who rely on specific thermal currents to remain aloft. Introducing RC models or drones into this active flight path creates a high risk of mid-air collision, which can be fatal for human pilots.
Core Requirements for 2026 (Brazil):
Airspace Conflict: The area is a "Priority Zone" for free flight. Under DECEA/ANAC regulations, human-piloted aircraft have absolute right-of-way. RC operations that interfere with these paths are subject to immediate federal intervention.
Safety Buffer: There is no "pit" or "flight line" infrastructure for RC models. Any attempt to fly here lacks the emergency support needed for high-altitude crashes or signal loss in complex mountain terrain.
Visual Line of Sight (VLOS): Terrain at Pico Agudo involves deep valleys and rapid weather shifts. Maintaining VLOS is nearly impossible, making it inherently non-compliant for standard hobbyist drones.
How to be "Socially Accepted":
Do Not Interfere: Never fly RC models near paraglider launch ramps or active landing zones. The community of free-flight pilots is highly protective of their safety; flying drones/models there is viewed as a reckless endangerment of lives.
Respect the Environment: Locations like the Pico Agudo in Sapopema or Santo Antônio do Pinhal are protected tourist and sports areas. Your presence as a pilot should be one of "observation," not "disruption."
Seek Proper Fields: If you enjoy mountain flying, look for federated aeromodelling clubs that operate at lower altitudes or in designated zones where you won't jeopardize human lives.