The Unmanned Aircraft (Public Safety and Security) Bill was tabled for its first reading in the Singaporean Parliament this week. Drones have become a popular hobby in the city state, and the government is looking to legislate on the matter to provide legal recourse in the event that something goes wrong.
A joint announcement from the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) and the Singapore Police Force reveal that the Bill will outline where and when drones can be flown in the country. The idea is that the government wants to facilitate the usage of drones “while mitigating the associated aviation safety, public safety and security risks”. These guidelines will take effect on 1 June, after the legislative process is completed.
Once the Bill is passed into law, Singaporeans will prohibited from using the drones to carry dangerous materials, and obtain a permit if they are flying a drone weighing more than 7kg. The law will also allow the state to gazette security sensitive areas to prohibit drones from flying over certain zones and taking photographs.
CAAS will serve as a “one-stop shop” for the submission of permit applications. Applicants will be able to submit their applications and supporting documents for all permits required through CAAS’ online permit application system from June 1.
[Source: Channel News Asia]
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