Unmanned Aerial Vehicle The latest drone news
By Michal Osmenda from Brussels, Belgium [CC BY 2.0]
The world’s most populous nation could also be headed for more durable guidelines on drones, as residents and lawmakers change into extra involved concerning the security and privateness dangers of leisure UAVs. “As drones have become more affordable, accessible and sophisticated, it is unsurprising that regulations have not kept up with operator trends and habits – particularly those of recreational users,” says an editorial within the South China Post. “But it’s worrying that the sharp rise in leisure drone flying coincides with plenty of reviews of collisions and close to misses between drones and passenger plane all over the world.
“The potential for catastrophic consequences is obvious,” says the writer.
The Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department has proposed a drone registration program much like that within the United States and instituted by China within the spring of this yr. Drones weighing greater than 250 grams can be registered and schooling supplied to operators; drones weighing over 7 kg would wish to satisfy security and insurance coverage necessities. Operators who don’t register could possibly be topic to fines and penalties.
But Hong Kong lawmakers are urging aviation officers to behave now to tighten drone laws, quite than look forward to the brand new packages to be enacted.
While some areas of town, together with the airport and harbor, are already designated as no-fly zones, officers are proposing a drone map which might clearly outline restricted areas. In addition, lawmakers need privateness protections from digital camera drones. While town is dedicated to supporting the business drone business and providers to shoppers, the danger that leisure drones characterize has change into an issue for lawmakers. Reported incidents involving manned plane and safety breaches have risen dramatically over the past yr, and public concern has risen with them.
“It may just be luck that drones have yet to cause any serious mishaps in Hong Kong,” says the editorial. “The need for better education and regulation is evident.”
