The highlights of which are:
• These will apply to any UAS (Unmanned aircraft system) registered in India; person
owning, possessing, engaging in trade, manufacturing, leasing, operating etc. UAS in
India
• Unlike earlier UAS regulations from now Aircraft Rules, 1937 will not apply on UAS
• The rules categorize UAS into 3 broad categories- aeroplane, rotorcraft and hybrid
UAS. This is further sub categorized into remotely pilot aircraft, model remotely pilot
aircraft and autonomous UAS
• Based on weight, the UAS have been categorized into five subcategories- nano (≤ 250
gms); micro (250 gms ≤ 2kg); small (2kg ≤ 25kg); medium (25 kg ≤ 150 kgs); large (150
kgs ≤)
• It brings in the concept of substantial ownership and effective control doctrine in
Indian Drone Laws. As per the rules, only a company which is substantially owned and
controlled by Indians (Chairman and 2/3rd of its directors should be Indians) shall be
able to get an authorization for importation, manufacturing, trading, owning or
operating an UAS
• ‘No permission, no takeoff (NPNT)’ made mandatory
• Small, medium, large UAS are required to be equipped with an emergency recovery
system
• Akin to an aircraft, each UAS is required to affix its UIN (Unique Identification Number)
in an identifiable and visible manner
• Concept of drone leasing recognized; Concept of drone ports recognized
• Central Government authorized to establish Unmanned Aircraft and Traffic
Management System (UTM)
• Organizations to get designated for carrying out R&D in UAS
Disclaimer: This is merely for information purposes and should not be construed as legal
opinion and/or advice.
Comments