Are drone flights regulated under Uttar Pradesh policy over Gorakhpur airspace?

Detailed Legal Analysis

Yes, drone flights in Gorakhpur are regulated under the Uttar Pradesh Drone Policy as well as the central regulations issued by the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), Government of India.

The regulation of drone operations in India is primarily governed by the Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Drone Rules, 2021. These regulations provide a framework for the operation of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) across the country, including in Uttar Pradesh.

Key points regarding drone regulation in Gorakhpur include:

• Registration and Licensing: All drone operators must register their drones on the Digital Sky Platform and obtain a Unique Identification Number (UIN) from the DGCA.
• Remote Pilot License: A remote pilot must possess a valid Remote Pilot License (RPL) issued by a DGCA-approved training organization.
• Flight Permissions: Operators must obtain permission from the local authorities for drone flights, especially in controlled airspace or near sensitive areas.
• Altitude Restrictions: Drones are usually restricted to fly at a maximum altitude of 120 meters (400 feet) above ground level.
• No-Fly Zones: Certain areas, such as near airports, military establishments, and other sensitive locations, are designated as no-fly zones. Operators must ensure compliance with these restrictions.
• Insurance Requirement: Operators are advised to obtain insurance coverage for any liabilities arising from drone operations.
• Local Regulations: The Uttar Pradesh government may have specific policies or guidelines in addition to the national regulations, which operators should review.

Furthermore, the Uttar Pradesh Drone Policy emphasizes promoting drone technology for various applications such as agriculture, surveillance, and disaster management, while ensuring safety and security. Operators should be aware of the state-specific regulations and guidelines that may apply to their operations.

In conclusion, drone flights in Gorakhpur are regulated both by national laws and state policies, requiring adherence to specific registration, licensing, and operational guidelines to ensure safe and lawful drone usage.