Michael Healy-Rae
Question:476. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when legislation on drones (details supplied) will be introduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3798/19]
View answerTuesday, 29 January 2019
Questions (476)
Written answers
Ireland already has a regulatory framework in place for drones - as set out under S.I. 563 of 2015 - which is now being enhanced by a new and very comprehensive EU Regulation - 2018/1139 (EU) - which sets out comprehensive rules relating to aviation safety and provides for new rules for drones.
Ireland has been at the forefront of drone regulation within the EU, and currently under our national rules all drones operating in the State with a mass of 1 kg or greater are required to be registered with the IAA. Registration is also required for drones with a mass of less than 1 kg where the operator wishes to fly at or above 15 metres above the ground (or water). When a drone is registered, there are restrictions where it may be flown, and it is limited to an operating height of not more than 120 metres above the ground (or water), unless specifically permitted by the IAA. There are also restrictions on flying drones near people, buildings and vehicles. To date, over 10,000 drones have been registered with the IAA.
The national rules also set the requirements for drone operations in the vicinity of aerodromes. For aerodromes within controlled airspace - such as Dublin, Cork, Shannon and Ireland West at Knock - drones are prohibited entirely, except as permitted by the IAA. For aerodromes in uncontrolled airspace, a drone may not be operated within 5 km during periods of aircraft operations, again unless the aerodrome operator or the IAA has given permission.
With regard to the new EU Regulation, I can advise the Deputy that the first set of detailed implementing rules for the operation of drones are currently being developed by the European Commission. Until these new pan-European rules are released, the Irish Aviation Authority will continue to apply the existing national regulatory requirements in accordance with S.I. 563 of 2015 for the registration and operation of drones.