Drone usage restricted; Find out the rules here

In recent developments, the government has decided to restrict the use of drones to capture photos and videos.

Even though the usage of drones to capture panoramic views of weddings, pre-wedding shoots or even vacations has increased significantly, after drones from Pakistan were spotted hovering over military bases, the government decided to tighten regulations on flying drones.

According to sources, the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation has laid down rules for selling and flying drones. Separate regulations have been drawn up for different categories of drones. In a city like Mumbai, drones cannot be flown without permission. In order to fly a drone, you have to receive permission from the Mumbai Police. The complete information of the person concerned, for what purpose and for how long the drone will be flown has to be given to the authorities. The decision with regards to the permission will then be taken by an officer of the rank of Deputy Commissioner.

Rules for using drones:

• Drones weighing less than 250 grams do not require a license.
• For commercial or recreational purposes, UAS Operator Permit-1I (UAOP-1) license is required for drone flights weighing less than 250 kg to 25 kg.
• Drones are allowed to fly in limited heights and areas if such a license is available.
• Drones weighing more than 25 kg require a UAS Operator Permit-2 (UAOP-2) license for the delivery of heavy goods.
• Prior approval from DGCA and Air Defense Control is required.
• No micro-drone can fly above 60 meters above the ground and at a maximum speed of more than 25 meters per second.
• No small drone can fly at a height of 120 meters and a speed of more than 25 meters per second.
• Drones of medium or large size can fly as per the conditions mentioned in the license issued by DGCA.
• Drones cannot be flown in restricted areas without prior permission.
• You need a license to fly a drone.

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