All flight activities must be approved by GCAA − Aviation Authority warns

Every aircraft that enters Guyana’s territory or flies within its borders must first have approval to do so from the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).
A stern reminder of this factor was made by Director General of the GCAA, Egbert Field, during a recent interview with this publication.
Field said he has been informed that security businesses in particular have been seeking to upgrade their offering by adding the operation of drones and even helicopters to their services. While he lauded this venture, since it means that locals are looking to expand their services and advance technologically, he was keen to note that before such services become operational, businesses must seek approval from the GCAA.
“They will have to go through the process before they are allowed, if they are allowed, to fly. They would have to go through the entire process of applying to the Authority, and also get the necessary permits and approval,” he explained.
Field has warned that businesses choosing to disregard this requirement can face drastic consequences if they are found in the act, such as being prohibited from operating ever again.
“The consequences would be extremely drastic. If we learn of such operations, definitely they can be fined after court action. Such operators could be banned for life,” he cautioned.
Asked if any such business has so far applied for a licence in this regard, Field responded in the negative. He said he is unaware of any business having applied for a licence to perform these new functions.
Guyana Times has, in recent days, observed at least one security firm expressing an interest in enhancing its services to add quick response operations via helicopter. That security company said it was expected to launch its service by October 2019, but did not disclose whether it had already secured the requisite licence.