The Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has banned people from operating “Unmanned Air Systems”, or drones, in Qatar’s airspace without its permission.
In an advertisement published in the newspapers yesterday, the CAA noted that Law Number 11 of 2002 prohibits unauthorised use of “automated or Remotely Piloted Air Vehicles (RPAS)” or popularly known as “drones”.
Of late, drones have become increasingly popular in Qatar, especially with those who take photographs and video from an aerial view of events and activities. It is also learnt that drones can be purchased in some major malls, supermarkets and hypermarkets.
“Such unauthorised use (of drones) poses serious threats and hazards to the State Air Safety and Air Navigation,” the CAA said.
The CAA had also asked RPAS operators to comply with the provisions of the law to avoid any legal action from concerned authorities.
In the UAE, those who own drones with cameras have been required since April last year to register their devices with the General Civil Aviation Authority.
The rule came into force three months after recreational drones strayed onto flight paths at Dubai airport and grounded passenger planes.