

Muscat: There has been a surge in the irregular use of drones recently, which includes operating them without obtaining the necessary permits or using them in prohibited or unauthorized areas, the Civil Aviation Authority warned on Tuesday.
CAA called on all drone users to fully adhere to the approved regulations and controls, and to obtain the necessary licenses through official channels and approved applications to preserve public safety and avoid any legal accountability.
As per regulations, it is prohibited to operate drones within a radius of 5km of airports, seaports, protected places, or other locations designated by the Competent Authority, unless authorized by the Competent Authority.
It is not allowed to operate drones at night (after sunset) without prior authorization from the Competent Authority or equip drones with weapons, hazardous materials, or any device that endangers public, individuals, and property safety.
It is not permitted to operate drones during official convoys or in a manner inconsistent with their designated operation and maintenance program.
It is not allowed to photograph private premises, fly over them, or invade individuals’ privacy, photographing military or security operations or parades, or traffic accidents.
It is not prohibited to drop leaflets without prior authorization from the competent authority, fly alongside or near manned aircraft, and engage in any activity prohibited by the Civil Aviation Law or any other law, or that poses a risk to life, property, air navigation, or the environment.
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