China releases drone regulations and cloud-based monitoring system

A recent drone accident, in which an unmanned aircraft crashed into power lines, causing an electricity blackout for six hours in southwest Sichuan, highlighted the necessity for strict and comprehensive regulations. The Chinese Government has recently introduced such regulations, which include a registration process, penalty clauses, banning the use of small drones for delivery to residents in cities, and certification for drones weighing between 25kgs and 150kgs. In addition, the newly-developed, cloud-based drone monitoring system can track drones and set off an alarm system in restricted areas. Officials are confident that the regulation will keep China at the forefront of the drone world. 

A Phantom 2 drone by Shenzhen-based DJI readies for take off over Kowloon near Hong Kong Island. The new regulations will apply in mainland China but not in Hong Kong. Photo: Edwin Lee