The government proposes a new policy for drone registration

The Ministry of Aviation has finalized a comprehensive framework titled ‘Civil Unmanned Aircraft Rules, 2024’ for the registration and regulation of drones and unmanned aircraft across Pakistan. The draft regulations, awaiting federal cabinet approval, are designed to oversee the usage of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly referred to as drones, throughout the country.

Under these rules, UAVs are classified into four categories based on their maximum take-off weight: category-I (up to 250 grams), category-II (250 grams to 10 kilograms), category-III (10 kg to 25 kg), and category-IV (25 kg to 100 kg). Each category entails specific requirements and regulations for registration and operation.

For UAVs falling under categories II, III, and IV, operators must log into the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA)’s electronic system and provide detailed operational information. Additionally, operators of these categories will need to obtain a “Remote Pilot Licence” from the CAA to legally operate such drones.

The regulations strictly prohibit UAV flights into restricted airspace without prior written permission from the Director General (DG) or an authorized officer. Furthermore, every UAV must be registered with the CAA, with registration renewal required every three years. Each registered UAV will be assigned a unique alphanumeric identifier.

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Importers and exporters of UAVs are also required to register with the DG, with specific clearance mandates for category III and IV drones from the Ministry of Defence. Non-compliance with these regulations may result in fines up to Rs. 100,000, with additional daily penalties for persistent violations.

The introduction of these rules aims to ensure safe and regulated drone operations across Pakistan while addressing security concerns and promoting responsible drone usage in various sectors including agriculture, surveillance, and photography.