Abu Dhabi: The regulatory committee of light air sports related to drones on Tuesday emphasised the importance of implementing existing laws related to such activities.
The committee urged stepping up law enforcement mechanisms and procedures to monitor violations, according to a press release issued by the Ministry of Interior on Tuesday.
The users of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) should get prior approval and register their details with the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).
Entities and individuals using unauthorised UAVs will attract legal action, including a fine.
The committee aims to regulate the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) in certain areas designated by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) to ensure the safety and security of its users and public and private property. The purpose is to avert threats to the country’s airspace and operating aircraft and illegal activities such as smuggling and illegal photography.
The meeting discussed procedures that have already been implemented by previous resolutions and joint coordination mechanisms between designated entities and legislations issued by the GCAA related to aircraft sports and drone flights.
The committee was headed by Maj Gen Doctor Ahmad Nasser Al Raisi, inspector general at the Ministry of Interior and head of regulatory committee of light air sports.
Last month, both Dubai and Sharjah International Airports suspended their operations for nearly 90 minutes due to unauthorised drone interference.
Currently, drones can be purchased from retailers in Dubai and some other parts of the UAE.
However, Abu Dhabi banned the sale of drones last year due to risks posed to the aviation sector.
More than 400 drones have been registered with the GCAA, mostly for commercial purposes for use in real estate, agriculture and the oil and gas industry.
