Beijing goes hard on sale, use of drones

International

BEIJING is banning the sale, rental, and entry of drones into the city starting Friday, as Chinese authorities impose stricter controls citing public safety and airspace security concerns.

Under the new rules, drone owners must register their devices with the police before use.

A report by CNN stated that all outdoor flights will require prior approval, and operators must complete an online training course and pass a test on drone regulations.

The restrictions also make it harder to move drones in and out of the capital. Devices sent outside Beijing for repair must be picked up in person, instead of being delivered back to owners.

China has been gradually tightening drone regulations in recent years, even as the industry grows. Drones play a major role in the country’s “low-altitude economy,” which includes services like food delivery, agriculture, and infrastructure maintenance, and is projected to generate over two trillion yuan by 2035.

Despite being home to major manufacturers like DJI, China is becoming one of the most restrictive environments for drone use. In Beijing alone, the entire airspace was declared a no-drone zone last year, requiring special clearance for any flight.

Authorities say the new measures aim to balance safety with innovation. Exceptions will still be allowed for approved uses such as disaster response and counter-terrorism operations.

With over three million drones registered nationwide, the sweeping rules are expected to significantly impact the country’s massive drone market. Some retailers in Beijing have already begun removing drone products from their shelves ahead of the ban.(Zsarrhied Samantha A. Tanjay,

CTU-TC BAEL-ELSD Intern)