AZE.US
Azerbaijan has tightened regulations governing the use of civilian drones and autonomous unmanned aerial vehicles.
The Milli Majlis approved amendments to the Law on Aviation in their third reading, introducing new certification, registration and flight authorization requirements.
Under the new rules, drones may be operated only with a registration certificate, an operator certificate and, where required, a separate operational permit issued by the relevant state authority.
Autonomous drones will be allowed to fly only within designated geographical zones and in accordance with restrictions established for those areas.
Flights in controlled airspace and near airports will require authorization from a specialized drone flight management and coordination center. The center will be responsible for coordinating drone operations, managing access to airspace and ensuring that flights do not interfere with civil aviation.
Authorities may refuse permission when applicants submit inaccurate information or documents, weather conditions make the flight unsafe, or restrictions are in place within the requested geographical zone.
Individuals and companies, including branches and representative offices of foreign legal entities, will also be required to obtain authorization to operate drones commercially.
The legislation establishes requirements for drone operators, automated control systems, remote control centers and employees responsible for monitoring autonomous aircraft.
State agencies will be authorized to inspect certified drone operators and verify compliance with aviation and transport regulations.
The civilian circulation of autonomous drones will also be regulated under Azerbaijan’s legislation governing items whose ownership and use require special permission.
Separately, the government will introduce rules for the use of airspace by ultralight aircraft. The amendments create the legal framework for a designated state body to determine flight and airspace-use procedures for such aircraft.
AZE.US