Beijing Announces Complete Ban on Drones Effective November 15

Beijing local government authorities announced a complete ban on the possession of drones within the Chinese capital, citing security concerns. The new prohibitions will take effect on November 15. These regulations further tighten existing restrictions on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) imposed earlier this year. Beijing has some of the most stringent drone regulations in China. According to AFP, the new restrictions prohibit individuals from possessing or storing drones, as well as transporting any components into Beijing. The flying of drones in Beijing airspace will only be permitted in exceptional circumstances, such as emergencies or counter-terrorism operations. Existing drone owners in Beijing have until the November 15 deadline to dispose of their devices or move them out of the city. Non-compliance may result in fines and confiscation of the UAVs. The entire administrative area of Beijing is now designated as controlled airspace for drones and other unmanned aircraft, with flying prohibited without approval. Additionally, Beijing authorities have launched a drone buyback program to reduce the number of UAVs in the city, offering subsidies for owners who scrap their devices, including the possibility of free shipping for those mailing their drones out of the city. A new no-fly zone in Beijing and surrounding areas will also go into effect on September 20, restricting non-essential flights, with exceptions for commercial aviation and emergency rescue operations. Some Chinese netizens have criticized the upcoming drone ban. Prior to the total ban, regulations approved in March and effective in May had already prohibited the sale of UAVs in Beijing. Existing drone owners were required to register their devices and comply with additional restrictions. Individuals will still be allowed to fly drones outside of Beijing, provided the devices are registered as required by authorities. The new regulations follow a small aircraft crash in June into Beijing’s Citic Tower, which resulted in the death of the pilot and injuries to several others. The Chinese Communist regime has not disclosed specific details regarding the June incident.