BEIJING IMPOSES BAN ON DRONE OWNERSHIP

BEIJING, SEPTEMBER 13 /SRNA/ – Beijing authorities have banned the possession of drones within the Chinese capital after banning their sale in May.

The new ban on drone ownership will take effect in mid-November, the Associated Press reported.

Beijing has also banned unauthorized drone flights on security grounds and designated the city's administrative area as restricted airspace.

The revised rules were adopted following a fatal accident in late June, when a small aircraft crashed into a high-rise building in Beijing, killing the pilot and injuring 13 people.

Under regulations adopted in March and effective from May 1, existing drone owners in Beijing were required to register their devices using their real names and identities.

Owners were allowed to keep their registered drones under strict conditions.

However, under revised regulations adopted this month and taking effect on Nov. 15, possessing or storing drones or key components within Beijing's city limits will also be prohibited.

Authorities may confiscate drones from people who violate the regulations and impose fines on individuals and companies.