New Law Regulating Drones Comes Into Effect

New legislation regulating the use of drones came into effect on Wednesday, with many pilots now required to register their identity and their equipment with the authorities.

Under the new law, drones are divided into three categories according to their weight, and pilots flying drones which are heavier or pose higher risks must register their information on a government website called eSUA (Small Unmanned Aircraft), and buy third-party liability insurance.

Operators using the heaviest drones may even need to undergo training and obtain prior permission from the Civil Aviation Department (CAD).

However, drones that weigh 250 grammes or less are exempt from the rules, as long as pilots abide by certain restrictions, including a maximum flying altitude and speed.

A six-month grace period will be in place for the public to familiarise themselves with the new requirements.

Andy Chau, who chairs the Drone Sports Association, welcomed the new legislation, saying the use of drones should be regulated in a packed city like Hong Kong, to ensure safety.

"Countries like the UK, Australia and Malaysia don't allow any flying in the urban areas... so I think there's some flexibility in Hong Kong for the drone flyers," he said.

"They can fly at an altitude of around 90 metres. I think it’s good enough for most people to enjoy flying [drones]."

But he urged the authorities to offer some leeway and relax the maximum speed limit of 50 km/h in certain areas so that the group’s members can continue to take part in drone racing in the city.

"In drone racing, the speed is most likely over 100 km/h. So if we can have some suitable area [where we can exceed the 50 km/h limit], that would help a lot for people to practice the sport and try to advance their level with a higher safety standard."

He also expressed concern over a rule that bans those younger than the age of 14 from flying drones, saying it will discourage younger children from taking up the sport.

Chau said authorities should allow children to fly drones as long as a guardian is present.