The Brazilian National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) has formally addressed concerns to the samba school Portela and the League of Independent Samba Schools (Liesa) following an incident in which an individual flew on a giant drone as part of Portela's performance. ANAC emphasized the strict prohibition against using drones to transport people, animals, or hazardous materials, warning that the equipment is not engineered for such purposes and poses significant risks, including fatal accidents. Furthermore, the agency has requested that Portela provide detailed information regarding the model of the drone, its serial number, registration proof with ANAC, and the remote pilot's details within a ten-day timeframe.

This incident occurred during a critical moment in the samba school's presentation, igniting a debate about safety practices and regulations surrounding drone usage in public events. Following the performance, André Rodrigues, the school's artistic director, resigned, adding to the controversy surrounding the event. The use of drones in entertainment has been a growing trend, yet the regulatory framework seems unable to keep pace with innovations in performance art, leading to heightened scrutiny from oversight bodies like ANAC.

As Portela has a reputation for its spectacular displays during Carnival, such incidents could tarnish its image and impact future performances. The aftermath of this event raises questions about the safety measures in place within the samba schools and the responsibilities of event organizers. With ANAC's investigation underway, the implications for future events at Carnival could result in stricter regulations regarding drone usage, necessitating a reevaluation of how technology is integrated into large-scale public spectacles.