The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) implemented Drone Regulations 1.0 for the commercial deployment of drones, or remotely operated aircraft, from December 1, 2018. This unique digital system, known as the Digital Sky Platform, facilitates online registration of pilots, devices, service providers, and implements the principle of NPNT (no permission, no take-off). The platform aims to provide an efficient and effective management system to streamline drone operations.
Introducing the Digital Sky Platform and its Impact
The Digital Sky Platform is a distinctive unmanned traffic management (UTM) system anticipated to ease registration and licensing procedures for drones and their operators. It also provides instant online clearances for each flight. This innovative mechanism has led to the categorization of airspace into Red Zone (where flying isn’t permitted), Yellow Zone (controlled airspace), and Green Zone (automatic permission). However, the operation of drones is restricted in certain areas such as airports, near international borders, coastlines, state secretariat complexes, strategic positions, and military installations.
Understanding Drones and Their Categories
A drone, formally referred to as Unmanned Aircraft (UA), is either a Remotely Piloted Aircraft, Autonomous Aircraft, or a Model Aircraft. Each type includes a remote pilot station(s), necessary command and control links, and other components as outlined in the type design. Based on their weight, drones can be classified into five categories: Nano (less than or equal to 250 grams), Micro (from 250 grams to 2kg), Small (from 2kg to 25kg), Medium (from 25kg to 150kg), and Large (greater than 150kg).
Regulations and Restrictions
Drone operations are restricted to daylight hours and capped at a maximum altitude of 400 feet. The payload must not carry humans or animals and must not contain anything hazardous. It’s mandatory to have insurance coverage for potential third-party damage. All drones, excluding the nano drones, those owned by the National Technical Research Organization, and central agencies, need to be registered and issued a Unique Identification Number (UIN).
Key Facts about Drones in India
| Drone weight classification | Weight range |
|---|---|
| Nano | Less than or equal to 250 grams |
| Micro | From 250 grams to 2kg |
| Small | From 2kg to 25kg |
| Medium | From 25kg to 150kg |
| Large | Greater than 150kg |
Looking at Drone Regulations 2.0 and Beyond
The government is actively working on Drone Regulations 2.0, focusing on three primary aspects: BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line Of Sight) operations, delivery of payloads, and automation of air traffic management as far as possible. This revised set of regulations will allow a single pilot to control any number of drones, tracked using artificial intelligence. Future policies, under drone regulations 3.0, are likely to include provisions for product delivery by e-commerce giants such as Amazon and flying taxis like Uber Elevate.
Exploring Applications of Drones
Drones are highly versatile and find their applications in various sectors. In agriculture, they can automate redundant processes, maximize efficiency, and spray medicines. They can also deliver quick access to drugs, blood, and medical technology in remote areas within healthcare. For disaster management, drones serve as effective tools for surveillance of disaster-stricken regions to evaluate damage, locate victims, and deliver aid. The use of drones in urban planning allows for instant mapping and surveying of land, thereby facilitating smarter city development. Conservation efforts utilize drones to monitor and track the number of animals in a certain habitat. Drones also offer significant advantages in weather forecasting, waste management, and mining operations.
Future Prospects for Drones in India
The potential of drones extends beyond the few applications mentioned above, offering a promise for technological advancements that can boost India’s economy. From drone-enabled deliveries to air taxis, these innovations could be as transformative as the introduction of automobiles. Recognizing and mitigating obstacles now can prepare industry stakeholders for these upcoming disruptions.