Friday, March 29, 2024 | Ramadan 18, 1445 H
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EDITOR IN CHIEF- ABDULLAH BIN SALIM AL SHUEILI

The growing popularity of drones

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Taking videography and photography to literal new heights, drones have become the next best thing when it comes to capturing the perfect shot. A limitless realm, drones give its users a view that could never be achieved before — whether it is a bird’s eye view of a running stream or taking videos of fireworks right where they explode!

Drone technology isn’t new but with its introduction into the public space, its demand boomed. With its gaining popularity and various companies coming out with better and more affordable models, it is no doubt that individuals and businesses are itching to get their hands on these portable flying machines.


But, pay heed to your local laws as like in Oman, many countries have either banned or required individuals to have licenses to be able to fly drones especially in residential, private and public property due to safety and privacy concerns.


With most of us mesmerized by drones because of its “coolness” and unlimited possibilities, it has raised many alarms amongst authorities, especially due to issues of privacy, trespassing, airspace regulations, etc.


In the Sultanate, earlier in the year, a statement was issued by the authorities confirming that flying of drones in Oman without prior approval was prohibited and those not following the rules could face legal consequences.


With its growing demand and increasing popularity, these rules have dampened the spirits of the drone enthusiasts in Oman who have waited around to get their hands on this new age tech.


Haytham, a drone enthusiast, and local explorer said, “Most people definitely would like to own a drone. It allows them certain freedom and aids your creativity as well. But even outside Oman, people are asked to use them responsibly. I personally would like to own one of the latest models. This is the trend.”


Understanding the reasons behind the rules and regulations put forth, he added, “Personally, I would like the license requirements to be simple and the application process faster. But from a security standpoint, you will understand where Oman’s ROP is coming from when it comes to ensuring safety and security. Drones, after all, are being used for different purposes other than photography and videography. This is the thing about technology, it has a good and a bad thing and people often tend to abuse them. It’s good that security measures are put in place.”


In April, the Public Authority for Civil Aviation (PACA) came out with a statement saying that soon the use of drones would not be limited to government and private sector only, giving access to individuals with licenses to own and fly drowns in certain areas.


“There are challenges facing the use of drones not only in the Sultanate but in the world as well. Since it is important to regulate this sector, we have formed a committee from the government, military and security bodies to formulate a way or a system of drones’ usage by the public. We want to make sure that they are not used near airports or security zones” said Anwar bin Abdullah al Raisi, Director-General of PACA told Observer.


Once allowed, drones could not only change the way individuals are able to take photos but shift the dynamics of many businesses across the country. In many parts of the world, drones have made a major entry in the real estate industry whereby using a drone, real estate companies can provide potential customers with a virtual tour of their future home or office, inside and out taking out the need of middlemen or having to physically show people individual houses making it easier for both the agents and the clients.


With each passing day, people are coming up with more creative and better ways to use drones. In Oman, Haytham believes that with drones being allowed, people would be able to produce photos and videos that would truly take peoples breath away.


Some of the newest models of drones have high-end camera technology that allows individuals to capture high-resolution images that are clear and crisp even from far distances. Those arguing that the camera could provide one with the same quality if not better, Haytham believes the difference is clear, he said “if you have the regular camera, you have to get at better vantage points or position yourself to get a wide angle. Drones solve that problem.”


“Like the Sultanate which has challenging but amazing landscapes. The wadis and the canyons, provide limitations to you as a photographer and videographer but from the air, you gain perspective that captures it as a whole. For people with a license to operate drones, they get better angles and better videos. I know one guy who has won an international award for an aerial photography. A good aerial angle matched with Oman’s unique features and landscapes to make a great shot. I’ve also seen some locally produced film clips, the cinematography is superb and drones are very helpful in the creative department.” Haytham added


TITASH CHAKRABORTY


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