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27 Apr, 2016

Australia bans drones at ANZAC day events

Canberra, Civil Aviation Safety Authority, 26 April 2016 — People with drones are being warned not to fly near ANZAC Day ceremonies or marches.

Civil Aviation Safety Regulations generally do not allow drones to be flown near or over groups of people or within 30 metres of people.

Drones could also pose a safety risk to any low level fly-past of ex-military aircraft taking place during ANZAC Day.

Aircraft conducting fly-pasts can be approved to fly as low as 500ft.

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority’s Director of Aviation Safety, Mark Skidmore, said the safety of people and aircraft taking part in ANZAC Day ceremonies is a high priority.

“While it is understandable some people might like to get pictures and videos of these events using drones it must be understood drones can pose a risk to people and aircraft,” Mr Skidmore said.

“That’s why we have a comprehensive set of safety regulations that every drone flyer must follow at all times. In simple terms, drones must be kept well away from people and aircraft and they must not be flown in a way that causes a hazard. That means drones should not be flown near ANZAC Day ceremonies and marches without express approval from CASA.”

CASA has a simple guide to the drone rules.

Watch a short video on drone safety.