Beijing puts a total ban on drones in update to regulations after deadly crash
Beijing has introduced stricter drone regulations, banning all uncrewed flights as well as the possession and storage of existing devices, while detailing disposal methods for the first time in an effort to strengthen security in the capital. The new rules, which will take effect on November 15, follow an incident in June, when a small aircraft crashed into Beijing’s tallest building, the Citic…
Beijing has implemented a total ban on drones, following a deadly crash in June that claimed the life of a pilot. This comes after the city introduced stricter regulations, banning all uncrewed flights and the possession and storage of existing devices. The new rules, effective from November 15, also detail disposal methods for drones for the first time.
The restrictions encompass the entire administrative area of Beijing, prohibiting not only the flying of drones, but also their possession, storage, transportation, and importation, except in exceptional circumstances. The city will establish a no-fly zone in its capital and surrounding areas starting September 20, primarily restricting non-essential flights, with commercial aviation and emergency rescue operations exempt.
Beijing's administrative area is designated as restricted airspace for UAVs. To facilitate the transition, owners must transfer their drones out of Beijing via official channels before mid-November. The city will offer subsidy schemes and waive postage fees for drones mailed out of the capital. The regulations, building upon the original framework approved in March, aim to "adapt to the new situations, tasks and requirements" of UAV management and "effectively fortify the capital's security defenses".
Written by urgent.news from South China Morning Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
