Strengere Regelungen: Peking verbietet Drohnen in Stadtgebiet

Beijing is tightening its regulations on drones in the Chinese capital. Effective November 15th, owning and storing drones within the city limits will be prohibited, according to officials who announced the move on Sunday. The city government justified the new measure by stating that it aims to ensure safety in the capital. These regulations also apply to tourists visiting Beijing.

Previously, the city had banned the bringing of drones into Beijing a few months ago, although ownership was still permitted as long as the drone was officially registered and linked to the owner's identity. Beijing, where the power center of the ruling Communist Party of China resides, often enforces stricter safety rules due to its significant population of over 20 million people.

Despite China's overall promotion of the drone industry, Beijing has some of the strictest regulations among China's major cities. Previously, in June, a small aircraft collided with the tallest skyscraper in the city center, killing the pilot and injuring 13 others, despite stringent flight rules being in place and the military-controlled airspace over the central city acting like a no-fly zone.

Now, drone owners can either sell their devices or ship them out of the city limits before November 15th. After that date, few exceptions, such as for research or agricultural purposes, will allow drone usage, with violators facing seizure and fines.