Tips for operating drones smartly

> Don’t fly near airports: Drones can interfere with commercial aircraft, and can cause severe safety issues in some cases. General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) regulations prohibit the flying of drones near, around or over airports. > Obtain proper permits: According to GCAA regulations, all drones must be registered with the authority. If you are flying a drone in Dubai for commercial reasons, then you will need to obtain a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the DCAA. This can only be obtained after you are registered with and approved by a related authority, usually the Dubai Film and TV Commission (DFTC). > Don’t fly over residential Areas: For reasons of privacy, the federal and municipal authorities forbid the flying of drones over residential areas. > Obtain permission for photographs: Privacy comes into play here too, as do restrictions on snapping some government buildings. Check with the GCAA or DCAA for more details. > Do ensure it is in sight: Drones must always be kept within visual sight of the operator, only fly during daylight and at no higher than 400ft (122m) above ground level. > Inform in case of an accident: If there is an accident, the operator must inform the GCAA. > Ensure utmost safety when flying: For the protection of people, the drone cannot fly within 200 metres of a person or building and cannot be flown overhead of groups of people at any height. > Fly within an aviation club: Drones weighing more than 5kg should be flown within the perimeters of licensed aviation clubs. > Seek advice from the government: To ensure you do not commit any offences as an active drone operator, your best bet is to consult with the DCAA or GCAA first.