FAQ For Media Productions & Event Companies​

As a licensed drone operations provider in Singapore, we frequently work with creative teams, event planners, and agencies. Below are answers to common questions to help you understand regulatory requirements and how to work smoothly with us.

 

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1. Can our in-house hobbyist or a friend fly a drone for our project?

 

No. Under Singapore law, any form of commercial drone operation—regardless of payment—requires:

• UOP (Unmanned Aircraft Operator Permit)

• UAPL (Unmanned Aircraft Pilot License)

• Class 1 Activity Permit (AP1) from CAAS (Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore)

 

Flying without the necessary approvals is illegal. Penalties for the first offence include fines of up to $50,000, imprisonment of up to 2 years, or both. Repeat offences can result in fines of up to $100,000, 5 years’ imprisonment, or both.

 

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2. Do we need permits if the flight is on private property?

 

Yes. Even within private premises—such as a client’s compound, building, or backyard, any commercial drone operations still require the UOP, UAPL, and AP1 permits. Airspace regulations apply regardless of property ownership.

 

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3. Do we need permits if the flight is indoors?

 

It depends. While indoor flights do not typically involve regulated airspace, permits may still be required depending on the number of participants and the nature of the drone operations. In many cases, securing approval is more straightforward compared to outdoor flights. Additionally, venue management approval is often necessary.

 

ThrottleUp pilots are highly skilled in executing precise indoor flights, even in tight or GPS-denied environments. Our expertise has earned the trust of clients across a wide range of settings, including fly-throughs at Marina Bay Sands Convention Hall, Singapore Expo, hotel rooms, furniture showrooms, factory automation lines, and warehouses.

 

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4. What if it’s a non-profit, charity, wedding, school event, or free shoot?

 

If the purpose is not purely recreational, it is classified as commercial use under CAAS regulations. Even if no money is exchanged, permits are still mandatory.

 

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5. What if we only fly the drone 1 metre off the ground?

 

Altitude does not exempt an operation from regulatory requirements. Any commercial drone usage—regardless of height—requires all three permits.

 

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6. Can we use our own drone pilot if you apply for the permit?

 

No. Permits are tied to the specific operator, drone type, and flight parameters. They are non-transferable. Only certified operators, like ThrottleUp Creation, can legally apply for and execute operations.

 

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7. Can we apply for the permits ourselves?

 

Only if your organization holds both the UOP and UAPL licenses. If not, you’ll need to work with a certified operator like us.

 

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8. Can you check with CAAS in advance to see if the drone operation will be approved before submitting a permit application?

 

Unfortunately, no. The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) evaluates each drone operation on a case-by-case basis. They do not provide pre-approvals or informal assessments. A formal application, along with the required advance payment, must be submitted before CAAS will review or provide feedback on the proposed operation.

 

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9. Can we get a rate card?

 

Due to the custom nature of each drone operation—location, flight altitude, subject, environment, crew, equipment, and permit complexity—we provide project-specific quotations. Please share your project details so we can guide you through the information needed.

 

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10. Can you fly for our shoot this weekend?

 

Unfortunately, no. The permit application process takes 2–4 weeks or longer depending on location, flight complexity, and airspace restrictions. We recommend contacting us at least 6–8 weeks in advance, and up to a year in advance for complex shoots.

 

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11. Can you apply for the permit first while our client finalizes details?

 

Yes—but only upon receipt of full payment for the operation. This allows us to begin the permit process, reserve equipment, and assign crew. We prioritize clients with confirmed bookings.

 

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12. Our client confirmed 2 weeks before the shoot. Are we good to go?

 

Possibly not. While we will begin the permit process upon payment, approval is not guaranteed in time. Late planning introduces risk and uncertainty. Early engagement is always best.

 

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13. What if the permit is not approved?

 

Permit rejections are extremely rare unless the operation involves high risk. We advise clients accordingly to ensure compliance. Permit application fees are non-refundable, but remaining funds can be credited toward future operations.

 

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14. Can you expedite the application for us?

 

Unfortunately, expediting is not possible. CAAS and other agencies (RSAF, MINDEF, SPF, LTA, NParks, etc.) follow structured review processes. Only operations critical to national interest may receive special consideration. We appreciate your patience as we await approval.

 

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15. Can someone else do the drone shoot if you can’t?

 

Engaging an unlicensed drone operator is illegal and risky. We have encountered cases where clients were fined for using unauthorized pilots. Please comply with regulations to avoid severe penalties.

 

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16. What if we want to shoot in restricted or private areas like Sentosa, Gardens by the Bay, Sports Hub, or near military/government sites?

 

In addition to CAAS approval, many of these locations have their own rules. You’ll need separate permissions from the site authorities. Please contact these venues early and let us assist with coordination.

 

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17. Is drone insurance available?

 

Yes. You may obtain your own insurance or request coverage through us for an additional fee.

 

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18. Our client wants a special drone performance or operation—can you help?

 

Absolutely! We specialize in custom drone solutions, including live performances, flight displays, and delivery systems. However, these require extensive lead time (up to 0.5–2 years) due to:

• Drone design and fabrication

• Pilot and crew coordination

• Regulatory approvals and testing

• Rehearsals and fine-tuning

 

The earlier you engage us, the better we can deliver a seamless, stunning result.

 

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Questions? Ideas? Ready to plan a shoot?

Contact us early to ensure smooth approvals and world-class drone execution. At ThrottleUp Creation, we turn your aerial vision into reality—safely, legally, and creatively.