The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has intensified its public awareness campaign on responsible drone operation following growing concerns over airspace violations and safety incidents.
The aviation regulator released comprehensive guidelines this week, emphasizing the need for strict compliance with existing drone regulations.
Under the updated guidelines, drone operators must maintain their aircraft within visual line of sight at all times and avoid flying within 10 kilometers of any airport. The authority also prohibits drone operations during adverse weather conditions or poor visibility.
Operators must immediately land their drones when manned aircraft approach the area and report any incidents involving injury or property damage within 48 hours to authorities.
CAAP strictly forbids drone flights over crowds, ongoing emergency situations, or sensitive facilities. Night operations and flights from moving vehicles are also banned under current regulations.
The authority particularly emphasizes that operating drones under the influence of drugs or alcohol poses serious safety risks and violates aviation safety standards.
Drone operators conducting commercial activities must secure a Certificate of Authorization (COA) from CAAP before beginning operations. The regulator also requires coordination with local government units to ensure compliance with municipal drone ordinances.
The aviation authority noted that unauthorized commercial drone operations can result in significant penalties and potential criminal charges under existing aviation laws.
This latest safety campaign reflects CAAP’s increased focus on drone regulation enforcement as recreational and commercial drone use continues expanding across the Philippines.
The authority has been working closely with airport operators and local governments to identify violations and educate the public on proper drone operation procedures.
For detailed information on drone regulations and permit applications, operators can visit the CAAP website at www.caap.gov.ph or contact the agency at (02) 8246-4988.
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