Singapore to impose fines for unauthorised drone operations under new policy

The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) and the Singapore Police Force (SPF) have announced new measures to control the operation of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) across its borders to enhance national security and public safety, according to an article published by Singapore’s Aerotime Hub.

The new policy expands on the existing framework that has governed in-country UA operations since 2015, says the article. “The Singapore Unmanned Aircraft (Public Safety and Security) Act, passed in 2015, established regulations for the safe operation of UAs, requiring permits for drones weighing more than seven kilograms or flying within five kilometers of an aerodrome. The new regulations categorically ban cross-border unmanned aircraft operations without a specific permit.”

In a joint statement issued on November 20, 2023, the CAAS and SPF said: “Such flights may pose a danger to public safety and security. Globally, we have seen cases of UAs disrupting airport operations, as well as being used for criminal activities, such as for smuggling, and to conduct terror attacks”.

Aerotime Hub says authorities have been granted extensive powers to enforce these regulations, including the authority to intercept and take down unauthorized unmanned aircraft. Operators found violating these rules face severe repercussions, including fines of up to SGD50,000 (approximately USD37,000), imprisonment for up to two years, or both.