Specific Regulations by Drone Class in India 

Regulations by Drone Class in India are based on their weight, and each category has specific regulations that operators must follow. This classification ensures that safety measures are appropriate to the size and capabilities of the drone.

Nano Drones (Up to 250g)

Definition

Nano drones are those that weigh up to 250 grams.

Regulations

• No Registration Required: Nano drones do not need to be registered with the DGCA.
• No Pilot Certificate Required: Operators do not need a pilot certificate to fly nano drones.
• Operational Limits: Nano drones can be flown up to 15 meters (50 feet) above ground level and must remain within visual line of sight.
• Indoor Use: Nano drones are allowed to be flown indoors without any restrictions.
• No-Fly Zones: Must not be flown in restricted areas such as near airports, military installations, or other sensitive locations.

Safety Recommendations

• Pre-Flight Checks: Conduct basic pre-flight checks to ensure the drone is in good working condition.
• Visual Line of Sight: Maintain visual line of sight (VLOS) at all times during the flight.
• Respect Privacy: Be mindful of privacy laws and avoid flying over private property without permission.

Micro Drones (250g to 2kg)

Definition

Micro drones weigh between 250 grams and 2 kilograms.

Regulations

• Registration Required: Micro drones must be registered with the DGCA.
• Pilot Certificate: Operators must obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC) by passing the DGCA exam.
• Operational Limits: Micro drones can be flown up to 60 meters (200 feet) above ground level and within visual line of sight.
• No-Fly Zones: Must not fly in restricted areas such as near airports, military installations, or other sensitive locations.
• Night Operations: Night flying is allowed with proper lighting and if the operator holds an appropriate certificate.

Safety Requirements

• Pre-Flight Checks: Conduct thorough pre-flight checks, including battery levels, propellers, sensors, and firmware updates.
• Flight Log: Maintain detailed flight logs, including date, location, duration, and any observations.
• Emergency Procedures: Have clear emergency procedures for lost link, battery failure, and adverse weather conditions.

Small Drones (2kg to 25kg)

Definition

Small drones weigh between 2 kilograms and 25 kilograms.

Regulations

• Registration Required: Small drones must be registered with the DGCA.
• Pilot Certificate: Operators must obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC) and may require an Unmanned Aircraft Operator Permit (UAOP) for certain operations.
• Operational Limits: Small drones can be flown up to 120 meters (400 feet) above ground level and within visual line of sight.
• No-Fly Zones: Must not fly in restricted areas such as near airports, military installations, or other sensitive locations.
• Night Operations: Allowed with proper lighting and appropriate certification.
• Advanced Operations: May require a Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC) for specific high-risk activities.

Safety Requirements

• Pre-Flight Checks: Conduct comprehensive pre-flight checks, including battery levels, propellers, sensors, and firmware updates.
• Flight Log: Maintain detailed flight logs, including date, location, duration, and any observations.
• Emergency Procedures: Have clear emergency procedures for lost link, battery failure, and adverse weather conditions.
• Insurance: Liability insurance is recommended for commercial operators to cover potential damages or accidents.

Medium Drones (25kg to 150kg)

Definition

Medium drones weigh between 25 kilograms and 150 kilograms.

Regulations

• Registration Required: Medium drones must be registered with the DGCA.
• Pilot Certificate: Operators must hold an Advanced Operations Certificate and may require additional certification depending on the nature of the operation.
• Operational Limits: Detailed in the SFOC, including altitude limits, distances from people and property, and specific safety measures.
• Controlled Airspace: Permission required from the DGCA to operate in controlled airspace.
• Advanced Operations: Typically involves high-risk activities and requires a Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC).

Safety Requirements

• Pre-Flight and Post-Flight Checks: Conduct extensive pre-flight and post-flight checks, including mechanical, electrical, and software systems.
• Maintenance Records: Maintain detailed maintenance logs for the drone, including repairs, updates, and routine checks.
• Risk Management: Implement comprehensive risk management plans, including detailed safety protocols and emergency response procedures.
• Insurance: Liability insurance is mandatory due to the higher risks involved.

Large Drones (Above 150kg)

Definition

Large drones weigh more than 150 kilograms and are used for specialized commercial, industrial, or research applications.

Regulations

• Registration Required: Large drones must be registered with the DGCA.
• Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC): Required for most large drone operations, detailing the conditions and limitations for the flight.
• Pilot Certification: Operators must hold an Advanced Operations Certificate and may require additional training and certification depending on the complexity of the operation.
• Operational Limits: Detailed in the SFOC, including altitude limits, distances from people and property, and any specific safety measures.
• Controlled Airspace: Permission required from the DGCA to operate in controlled airspace.
• Insurance: Liability insurance is usually mandatory for large drone operations due to the higher risks involved.

Safety Requirements

• Pre-Flight and Post-Flight Checks: Conduct extensive pre-flight and post-flight checks, including mechanical, electrical, and software systems.
• Maintenance Records: Maintain detailed maintenance logs for the drone, including repairs, updates, and routine checks.
• Risk Management: Implement comprehensive risk management plans, including detailed safety protocols and emergency response procedures.
• Insurance: Liability insurance is mandatory due to the higher risks involved.

Summary

Understanding the specific regulations by drone class is essential for ensuring compliant and safe operations in India. Each class of drone has its own set of rules and requirements, reflecting the varying levels of risk and complexity associated with their use. Whether operating a nano, micro, small, medium, or large drone, adhering to these regulations helps protect public safety, ensures legal compliance, and fosters a responsible drone community.