China tightens drone ownership and usage rules in Beijing

Chinese authorities have tightened restrictions on the ownership and use of drones in Beijing as part of measures aimed at enhancing airspace security.

Authorities have decided to ban the possession or storage of drones within the capital starting November 15, following an earlier decision prohibiting their sale in Beijing. The new regulations now extend to ownership and storage, in addition to existing rules on flying and operating drones.

These measures come amid increased oversight of low-altitude aviation activities after a small aircraft crashed into a building in the Chaoyang district last June, killing the pilot and injuring 13 people.