The Civil Aviation Authority's (CAA) tightened rules on the use of drones by mandating all drone operators must complete training from organisations approved by the authority.
The regulation comes into effect from December 1, 2024.
A licence is not needed to use a drone indoors whose weight does not exceed 250g and whose maximum height does not exceed 100m above the ground, unless it carries sensors to collect data or photos.
The decision stipulates that the licensee must ensure there is no danger to people or their property, and should not transport materials or perform delivery services without approval.
The licensee shall be responsible for any damage caused to people, public or private properties and all other liabilities or expenses. The licensee should notify the concerned parties immediately upon the occurrence of any drone accident.
The licensee is banned from operating drones within a radius of 5 km of airports, ports, protected places, military areas and any other locations determined by the authority. They cannot fly the drone after sunset without permission.
Drones cannot be used during shows or competitions, chase manned aircraft, and fly near them. In the event of a violation of these regulations, the competent authority may cancel the licence or impose an administrative fine.
A fine of RO 600 will be imposed for not following weather-related or other safety guidelines; RO 500 for flying drones without a licence; RO 300 for failure to follow the time and place in the licence; RO 300 for failure to comply with the actual purpose of using drones; and RO 200 for failure to carry the licence or refusal to present it to the competent authority upon request. Licences under old regulations shall continue to be valid until the expiry of their term, and renewal shall be done based on new regulations.
To obtain a licence, the applicant must not be less than 18 years and pass the test or training approved by civil aviation regulations.
The application will be approved after verifying all documents, technical data, and specifications in coordination with the concerned authorities.
The applicant may be notified if he or she does not fulfil the documents, data and specifications. The technical team will notify the deficiencies in his or her application, and grant a period not exceeding 30 days from the date of notification to correct the deficiencies.
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