China Tightens Drone Regulations: What You Need to Know About New Safety Guidelines

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China has designated drones as a national security threat and moved to sharply tighten controls. Xinhua reported on the 30th that public security authorities issued new safety guidelines to strengthen drone oversight. Under the measures, operators must complete real-name registration and verify airspace before every flight, and flight altitude is limited to 120 meters (about 394 ft). Military facilities, airports, high-speed rail corridors and cultural heritage sites have been declared no-fly zones, and minors may operate drones only under adult supervision. Authorities can also establish temporary restricted airspace around major events and tourist sites, imposing additional limits. Starting in May, Beijing will regulate the full drone lifecycle — sales, imports, storage and flights. Imports of unapproved drones and parts will be banned, and rules for storing drones in urban areas will be tightened. DJI, the world’s largest drone manufacturer, has begun removing affected products from its Beijing retail outlets.

Beijing drone store

Correspondent Sam-jin Bae (baesj@yna.co.kr), Yonhap News TV. For tips or inquiries: KakaoTalk/Line jebo23 (Sam-jin Bae, baesj@yna.co.kr)