Drone complaints in 2017 double from 2015, with most cases involving restricted areas, Hong Kong authorities say
Figures revealed as a three-month public consultation is under way with officials considering proposals to strengthen and refine legislation
The number of complaints lodged against drones in 2017 more than doubled from 2015, with two-thirds of cases involving operations in restricted areas, Hong Kong’s aviation authority said on Wednesday.
In a written statement to the Legislative Council, the Civil Aviation Department said it received 60 complaints last year against drone operations, compared with 47 cases in 2016 and 27 in 2015.
Under current aviation rules, drone operations are banned in certain areas, including populated and congested districts, the airport, near helipads, as well as at Victoria Harbour.
The department said 41 complaints received last year were related to drone activities in such areas, while nine other cases involved privacy-related issues.
“Upon receipt of complaints, the department will take appropriate follow-up actions which may include obtaining further information from the parties concerned, urging the parties to comply with unmanned aircraft safety guidelines and rules, or requesting the relevant police division to step up patrols,” the department said in a statement.