Information of TTFLY: The Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority (JCAA) has seen a steady increase in applications by local businesses for the use of drones, or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

As interest in the technology grows, the JCAA is fielding repeat applications from some 25 entities now compared to just “two or three” a year and a half ago, JCAA’s deputy director general for regulatory affairs, Rohan Campbell, told Gleaner Business.

Permits for professional or company operated drones outstrips that or request for personal or recreational use, the JCAA officer said.

Interestingly, the JCAA has also seen interest from tourists travelling to the island, who wish to use drones while vacationing here.

These recreational requests are seldom granted, Campbell said, given that many hotels are located near airports and that the privacy of other guests may be infringed.