Debated in Parliament on 9 Jul 2014.
Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for Transport in respect of current regulations governing unmanned aerial vehicles (also known as drones or unmanned airships) in Singapore's airspace (a) whether there are any restrictions on the size or engine power of the drones; (b) whether there are any requirements for individuals to be certified before operating drones and, if so, what are these certifications for; (c) whether the Government sees potential in the commercial drone industry in Singapore; and (d) whether there are plans to provide a clearer regulatory framework so as to accommodate a possible growth in this industry.
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has embarked on the development of international standards to regulate unmanned aircraft operations, particularly in airspace used by manned aircraft. The work covers areas such as certification of the unmanned aircraft system (widely known as UAS), competency requirements of the UAS operator/pilot, and guidance on its operations. Singapore, represented by the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS), is a member of the ICAO Panel tasked with developing such standards.
In Singapore, there is growing public interest in civilian unmanned aircraft activities for recreation and commercial purposes such as aerial filming. There are also several companies in Singapore seeking to grow the commercial UAS industry here.
and that is capable of being flown without a pilot. To preserve the safety of manned aircraft operations, the ANO disallows the flying of such unmanned aircraft within 5 km of an aerodrome, or at an altitude higher than 200 ft above mean sea level when outside 5 km of an aerodrome, unless a permit has been obtained from CAAS.
The current regulations do not adequately address unmanned aircraft heavier than 7 kg, to which regulations for manned aircraft would apply. In parallel with the development of international standards by ICAO, CAAS is reviewing the regulatory framework for the various types of unmanned aircraft and their operations in Singapore. This review, which is being done in collaboration with other stakeholders, takes into account the safety and security risks posed by unmanned aircraft activities, particularly near aerodromes, built up areas and critical/sensitive installations. The review will provide the necessary regulatory oversight of UAS activities while allowing for the growth of the industry. Operating guidelines to advise operators on the safe conduct of UAS activities are also being developed. The proposed regulatory framework will be rolled out for public consultation in the coming
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