Drone flying is gaining popularity in Singapore for both recreational and professional use. However, operating a drone comes with important responsibilities and regulations. Here are the 6 essential rules you need to know for safe and legal drone aerial flying in Singapore:
Register Your Drone
All drones weighing over 250 grams must be registered with the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS). This helps authorities track drone ownership and promotes accountability. Flying an unregistered drone can result in significant fines, so be sure to complete the registration process before your first flight.
Know the No-Fly Zones
There are restricted areas where drone flights are prohibited, including near airports, government buildings, and military installations. Use apps like OneMap to identify these no-fly zones before planning your aerial shoot. Flying in a restricted area, even accidentally, can lead to fines or confiscation of your drone.
Maintain Visual Line of Sight
Always keep your drone within your visual range - not behind trees or buildings. This rule ensures better control and helps prevent accidents. Losing sight of your drone during filming could lead to dangerous situations.
Adhere to Altitude Limits
In Singapore, recreational drones are not allowed to fly higher than 200 feet (about 60 metres). This limit helps avoid interference with civilian and military air traffic. Monitor your flight height carefully and set altitude limits on your transmitter to stay well below this ceiling. To find out more about the difference between recreational flights and commercial flights read here!
Obtain Permits for Commercial Use
If you're using a drone for commercial purposes, such as professional videography, you need to obtain special licenses and permits from CAAS. This process can take time, so plan ahead if you intend to use drone footage for paid work. Or otherwise, reach out to the WetheFlyers team for commercial filming support and expertise.
Perform Pre-Flight Safety Checks
Before each flight, go through a safety checklist. This should include:
• Checking battery life - 95% and above
• Assessing weather conditions - With NEA website, low humidity levels, observe cloud movements and rain areas
• Inspecting the flying area - Safe? Crowded? Presence of structures and people? Any suitable takeoff locations?
• Examining the drone's condition - any damages, missing parts etc.
Tips for Aspiring Drone Pilots
For some seasoned pilots, flying drones is a lot of thrill, However, to first-timers, it can be somewhat nerve-wracking. This section offers beginner pilots some advice on learning how to use drones:
First, practise a lot. Start in an open area with no people around. This helps new pilots learn to control the drone. They can practise hovering and flying in different directions.
Secondly, learn from the experts. Taking online lessons, like those in SkillsFuture drone courses, can teach important skills. A good teacher can show new pilots how to fly safely and follow the rules.
Finally, use technology to help. Some apps make flying easier. These apps can show important things, like how much battery is left and how high the drone is flying.
Utilising Technology for Better Control
Technology helps a lot with flying drones. Many apps can make flying better. These apps help with finding the way, checking the weather, and even controlling the drone.
Some apps show pilots where they are flying and if they are near a no-fly zone. This helps them follow the rules. Also, knowing how to use the drone's controls is important. Pilots should learn how to use drones properly and should practise keeping the drone in one spot.
Learning drone courses from a reputable provider can be very helpful. Teachers can show everything from basic flying to advanced tricks. They also explain the rules and safety tips that every pilot should know.
SkillsFuture courses are a great place for anyone who wants to learn the basics in flying drones. It covers everything a new pilot needs to know, from basic aerial navigation to professional aerial videography. It is also true that many risks can be avoided if one learns how to fly a drone from the right instructors.
Tips for Aspiring Drone Pilots
For beginners, drone flying can be both exciting and intimidating. Here are some key tips to help you get started:
Practise extensively: Begin in open areas away from people and obstacles. Focus on mastering basic manoeuvres like hovering, ascending/descending, and flying in different directions.
Learn from experts: Enrol in reputable drone courses, such as those offered by SkillsFuture. Professional instruction can teach you safe flying techniques and ensure you understand relevant regulations.
Utilise technology: Take advantage of drone apps that provide critical information like weather patterns, altitude, and no-fly zones. These tools can enhance your flying experience and help you stay compliant with local laws.
Create a pre-flight checklist: Before each flight, go through a safety checklist that includes checking battery levels, weather conditions, and drone components. Save your time too! (Wouldn't want to prep everything just to be faced with rainy weather aye?)
Start slow: Begin with basic manoeuvres and gradually progress to more complex techniques. Plenty of resources online, but if you need guidance do reach out to us! Use careful, gentle inputs on the controls to maintain steady flight.
Understand your drone: Thoroughly read the instruction manual to familiarise yourself with your drone's specific features, limitations, and controls. Each has its own characteristics!
Stay within visual line of sight: Always keep your drone in view to maintain control and avoid potential hazards.
Be aware of regulations: Research and follow local drone laws, including registration requirements, no-fly zones, and altitude restrictions. Aetos/CAAS officers are very active so do ensure you know the rules!
Conclusion
Drone operation in Singapore offers exciting opportunities for both hobbyists and professionals. However, responsible flying is crucial to ensure safety and compliance with local regulations. By adhering to the six key rules outlined in this guide, drone enthusiasts can enjoy this activity while respecting legal and safety boundaries.
To recap, these essential rules are:
Registering your drone
Knowing and avoiding no-fly zones
Maintaining visual line of sight
Adhering to altitude limits
Understanding and obtaining necessary permits for commercial use
Performing pre-flight safety checks
For those eager to develop their skills and knowledge further, professional courses like those offered by SkillsFuture provide invaluable training. These programmes equip new pilots with the expertise needed to capture stunning aerial footage safely and legally.
Remember, responsible drone operation not only ensures your safety but also contributes to the positive development of the drone community in Singapore. With the right knowledge and practise, you'll soon be capturing breathtaking aerial shots and enjoying the unique perspective that drone flying offers. Happy and safe flying!
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