The Ministry of Aviation has introduced a new set of rules for registering drones and unmanned aircraft. These rules, called the “Civil Unmanned Aircraft Rules, 2024,” are awaiting approval from the federal cabinet and will regulate the use of drones across the country.
All drones, also known as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), must be registered with the federal government. The new rules categorize drones into four groups based on their maximum take-off weight.
Categories
- Category-I: Up to 250 grams
- Category-II: 250 grams to 10 kilograms
- Category-III: 10 kilograms to 25 kilograms
- Category-IV: 25 kilograms to 100 kilograms
To operate drones in categories II, III, and IV, users must log into the Civil Aviation Authority’s (CAA) electronic system and submit details of their drone operations. Additionally, pilots flying drones in these categories will need a “Remote Pilot Licence” from the CAA.
The new rules also prohibit drones from flying into restricted areas without written permission from the Director General (DG) or an authorized officer. Each registered drone must renew its registration every three years and will be assigned a unique number made up of English letters and numbers.
Importers and exporters of drones must register with the DG, and drones in categories III and IV require special clearance from the Ministry of Defence. Violating these rules can result in fines of up to Rs. 100,000, with additional daily fines for ongoing violations.
These new regulations aim to ensure the safe and controlled use of drones across the country, enhancing both security and airspace management.
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