In today's world, drones have become a popular tool in a multitude of industries. They are used for aerial photography, delivering packages, surveying, and even in search and rescue operations. The possibilities are endless, but with new advances in drone technology, there are also concerns about their usage, especially when it comes to privacy and safety. In this article, we'll explore how drones are regulated in different countries and jurisdictions and what laws govern their use.
The United States
The United States' Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) governs the use of drones through the Part 107 regulation. Part 107 states that individuals need to get a Remote Pilot Certificate to fly drones weighing less than 55 pounds for commercial purposes. Pilots must be at least 16 years old, pass an aeronautical knowledge test, and undergo a TSA security screening.
This law also limits the altitude that drones can fly to 400 feet, even though some waivers can allow exceptions. The use of drones is also prohibited near airports, stadiums, and other high-traffic areas. Additionally, drones must have anti-collision lights for flights at nighttime.
Canada
Canada has similar drone regulations. Transport Canada regulates drone usage through the Canadian Aviation Regulations (CAR), Part IX. This regulation states that pilots must have a Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC) to fly a drone for commercial purposes. Individuals must also pass exams to obtain the SFOC, which also require them to create a safety plan.
Similar to the US, Canada also limits drone altitude to 400 feet and requires pilots to have anti-collision lights when operating their drones at night. Drone flying near airports or near individuals is strictly prohibited. However, Transport Canada does allow for certain exemptions which allow UAV's to be flown in areas required and used for purposes where the security and privacy of individuals are protected.
Europe
Europe has no EU-wide regulations in place to govern drone usage. However, individual countries have their own regulations concerning the use of drones.
In view of this, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has introduced EU regulations for drone use which have been gradually phased in from 2019. These regulations apply to drones flown in the open and in or near "no-fly zones," city centres, and beyond-line-of-sight operations.
Pilots must undergo online training and registration, followed by an exam in courses such as aeronautical knowledge, practical flight tests, safety and risk assessments, and communication with air traffic control. In Europe, commercial drone operators must also have liability insurance for accidents.
Asia
Asia has a diverse set of drone regulations with enforcement varying significantly between jurisdictions. Countries such as Japan, Hong Kong, and South Korea have enacted drone regulations similar to those of the United States and Canada.
On the other hand, China has implemented stricter drone usage regulations, requiring individuals to register their drones with the Civil Aviation Administration of China. The maximum height drones can fly in China is 120 meters (approximately 393 feet), and they cannot fly near prohibited airspace. Japan, on the other hand, follows a similar approach but requires pilots to register any drone weighing more than 200 grams before flying.
Drone Usage Outside of Regulations
Despite government-imposed regulations, drones have been known to operate outside of these guidelines, ultimately creating security threats, invading personal privacy and compromise safety. As a result, some governments around the world have taken stringent measures to control drone misuse. Such measures include the introduction of drone geofencing and jamming technology to prevent drones from flying too close to unwanted areas.
Meanwhile, some other governments have developed illegal drone detectors to aid in tackling criminals who utilize drones as a tool in their activities. Enforcing drone restrictions has become an industry of its own.
Conclusion
In conclusion, drone regulations have been enacted all over the world to ensure that drones are used safely and responsibly. It is essential to know these regulations before purchasing a drone and becoming a drone pilot in order to avoid hefty penalties or potential harm.
Despite drones creating new opportunities, their improper usage could cause immense long-term effects, and hence, it is essential to stay vigilant in ensuring their correct usage. Keeping abreast of drone regulation and restrictions is currently a crucial aspect of embracing the revolution that is drone technology.
