Fly responsibly: Drone users are calling for a streamlined approval process. — GLENN GUAN/The Star
Approval process should be hassle-free, say device users
PETALING JAYA: Drone users are calling for a faster, more streamlined approval process for flying the devices, rather than the current requirement to submit permit applications at least 14 days in advance.
“There should be a mechanism where applications can be made easily and enable us to submit it directly to the system instead of e-mailing it to the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM),” said a drone enthusiast who spoke on the condition of anonymity.
This call follows a recent directive issued by CAAM reminding drone users on the device’s regulations.
In the directive issued on Feb 7, CAAM stated that all drones, either in low or high-risk operations, required a permit.
This includes drones or other unmanned aircraft with cameras flown below 400ft.
Another drone enthusiast who spoke anonymously, asked for clarity on how the regulations are enforced.
“Almost all industries utilise drones for their operations now. Is the Traffic Management for Unmanned Aircraft System ready for implementation?”
He also asked if any action has been taken against those who previously flouted drone operation regulations, citing instances where drones were flown over the Petronas Twin Towers, which is a no-fly zone.
“Stern action should be taken against them to set an example,” he said.
Another drone hobbyist, Chong, proposed the establishment of a one-stop centre to monitor all things related to drone operations.
“This will definitely make things easier for those intending to fly drones, either for commercial or recreational purposes while abiding by the law,” he said.
Meanwhile, Saravanan Letchumenan, the chief executive officer of a drone services consultancy, said regulations are there to ensure overall safe drone operations.
“The regulations are not something new, and those in the industry know of this,” he said, referencing Civil Aviation Regulations 2016 (CAR 2016).
He also said the regulations are necessary, noting how the airspace may not always be as empty as it seems.
“It’s not just drones up there, but it is also occupied by helicopters, light aircraft and commercial aircraft,” he said.
When contacted, CAAM chief executive officer Datuk Capt Norazman Mahmud said the recent directive was to notify the industry of existing drone regulations under the CAR 2016.
“Any misconduct may result in fines of up to RM50,000, three years imprisonment, or both, while corporations could face fines of up to RM100,000,” he said, referencing several instances last year where drone operations, particularly training activities, were conducted without obtaining approval or permits.
Norazman said all drone owners and operators, including hobbyists and commercial users, must apply for the Authorisation to Fly permit.
“This includes those engaged in wedding photography, aerial mapping, media production and other business-related drone activity.
“Different categories may require specific permits, depending on the risk level and intended use,” he said, adding that the costs vary and can be accessed at CAAM’s official website.
“The permits are to ensure safety, accountability and responsible use of drones, allowing authorities to track drone ownership and identify those responsible in cases of misuse or other drone incidences,” he added.
Apart from CAAM, other regulatory authorities overseeing drone regulations in Malaysia are the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, Sirim, chief government security office, and National Mapping and Survey Department.
On the courses needed to be taken by drone pilots, Norazman said there are currently six Approved Training Organisation – Remote Pilot Training Organisations (RPTO) formally approved by CAAM to provide this.
“The cost and duration differs based on the level of certification,” he said, adding that the list of RPTOs can be referred from the CAAM’s website.
