Beijing puts a total ban on drones in update to regulations after deadly crash

Beijing has introduced stricter drone regulations, banning all uncrewed flights as well as the possession and storage of existing devices, while detailing disposal methods for the first time in an effort to strengthen security in the capital.

The newly revised regulations on the management of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) were announced on Sunday on the municipal government website. They will apply across the city.

The authorities will also establish a no-fly zone in the capital and its surrounding areas, effective from September 20, primarily restricting non-essential flights, official media in Beijing said on Sunday. Commercial aviation and emergency rescue operations will be exempt.

According to the document, Beijing’s entire administrative area is designated as restricted airspace for UAVs. It is forbidden not only to fly drones but also to possess, store, transport or bring them and their core components into the city, except in exceptional circumstances.

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The new rules, which build upon the original framework approved in March, state that the revisions are to “adapt to the new situations, tasks and requirements” of UAV management and “to effectively fortify the capital’s security defences”.