TL;DR:
- Bangladesh’s draft “Drone Regulations 2024” will require licences for most drones, except toy drones.
- Non-toy drone operators must be at least 16, undergo training, and get flight clearance from CAAB and security agencies.
- Airspace is divided into green, yellow, and red zones, with strict rules for flying near sensitive areas and events.
- All non-toy drones must be registered with CAAB, and importing drones will require approval from the Ministry of Defence and Home Affairs.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism in Bangladesh has introduced a draft of new regulations aimed at tightening control over the use, import, and operation of drones across the country. The proposed “Drone Regulations 2024” outline a comprehensive framework that will require drone operators to obtain licences from the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB), except for toy drones, which are exempt from these requirements.
The draft regulations classify drones into three main categories: toy drones, general drones used for activities like filming or surveying, and drones capable of carrying people or cargo. Toy drones are defined as devices weighing less than 250 grams and lacking audio or video recording capabilities. These drones can be flown up to 100 metres without prior permission, provided they remain within the designated “green zone” airspace.
For non-toy drones, operators must be at least 16 years old and will need to undergo training and certification through CAAB. In addition to obtaining a certificate of competency, operators will be required to demonstrate knowledge of airspace protocols. Each flight of non-toy drones must be authorised by CAAB, with clearance also required from multiple security agencies including the Air Defence Operations Centre, Defence Intelligence Agency (DGFI), National Security Intelligence (NSI), and local police. This multi-layered approval process is designed to address concerns over public safety, state security, and aviation risks.
The regulations divide airspace into three distinct zones:
- Green zone: Toy drones can be flown without prior approval up to 60 metres.
- Yellow zone: Areas near airports, densely populated regions, and public gatherings where permission from CAAB is required.
- Red zone: Restricted areas such as military bases and sensitive government installations where special authorisation from CAAB and security agencies is mandatory.
Additionally, the draft mandates that all non-toy drones must be registered with CAAB. Operators will need to provide detailed documentation, including the intended purpose of the drone, technical specifications, purchase or import paperwork, and a no-objection certificate from the Ministry of Defence. Importing drones or their parts will require approval from both the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Home Affairs. These measures aim to prevent high-powered drones from being misused for illegal activities.
The proposed regulations also impose strict penalties for violations. Operating a drone without proper authorisation could result in legal action under the Penal Code of 1860 and the CAAB Act of 2017. Penalties may include fines or imprisonment depending on the severity of the infraction, particularly if drone flights endanger public safety or disrupt air traffic.
The government has opened the draft regulations for public feedback until the end of November 2024. This consultation period allows stakeholders to submit suggestions before finalising the rules.
Bangladesh’s move to tighten its drone regulations follows similar trends in other countries. For instance, India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) requires most drone operators to obtain a Unique Identification Number (UIN) along with an Operator Permit for all but nano drones used for non-commercial purposes. In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) mandates that commercial drone operators obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate and register their drones if they weigh more than 250 grams. The UK’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) also requires drone operators to pass an online theory test and obtain necessary permits for drones over 250 grams.
As Bangladesh looks to finalise its regulations in early 2025, these new rules are expected to significantly impact both recreational and commercial drone operations in the country by enhancing safety measures while addressing growing concerns over privacy and security.
