As Singapore gears up for the National Day Parade (NDP) 2024, the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) has announced a series of temporary airspace restrictions. These measures are set to ensure the safety of low-flying aircraft involved in the parade preparations and on the day of the event itself.
Key Dates for Restrictions
The restrictions will predominantly occur on Saturdays from June to August, with additional bans on two Tuesdays and during the NDP on August 9. The designated days are as follows: June 15, June 22, June 29, July 13, July 20, July 27, and August 3, with the Tuesdays being May 28 and June 11.
Areas Affected
The restricted areas will cover significant parts of Singapore, including the Padang, where the NDP will be held. The ban extends from the ground level up to 760 meters above sea level, encompassing not only drone operations but also other aerial activities like kite-flying and the release of balloons.
Legal Implications
Operating drones or conducting aerial activities within these restricted zones without appropriate permits from CAAS is an offense under the Air Navigation Order (ANO) and the Air Navigation (101 – Unmanned Aircraft Operations) Regulations 2019 (ANR-101). Violations can lead to severe penalties, including fines up to $20,000 for first offenses under the ANO. For breaches under the ANR-101, penalties can be as severe as two years in jail or fines up to $50,000, with even stricter consequences for subsequent offenses.
