CAAS Seeks Public Feedback on The Conduct of Aerial Activities
Recognising the rising popularity of recreational and commercial aerial activities in Singapore, the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) is embarking on a review of the regulations of such activities. This review will include a month-long public consultation exercise from 13 June 2012 to 12 July 2012. There is potential to liberalise the current restrictions on height and permitted areas for the conduct of specific types of aerial activities, while maintaining high international aviation safety standards.
“This review on the conduct of aerial activities is timely. There has been increasing public demand for more space to conduct aerial activities in Singapore. With the advancements in aircraft technology, air navigation systems on the modern aircraft have greatly improved, enabling the creation of more space for such activities where possible. While the safety of flight operations in Singapore remains paramount, this review will allow CAAS to explore a new balance between aviation safety and the desires for other aerial activities,” said Mr Soh Poh Theen, Assistant Director-General, CAAS.
Current Restrictions
Presently, under the Air Navigation Order Paragraph 64, aerial activities such as kite-flying, aeromodelling and hoisting of captive balloons are prohibited within 5km from an airport or airbase. Beyond the 5km radius, such activities can be permitted, but are subject to a height limit of 200ft above ground (approximately the height of a 12-storey building). The legislation is in place to maintain a safe operating environment free of hazards to aircraft, as such aerial activities can pose potential risks to flight operations.
For instance, objects such as kites and model aircraft when flown in the vicinity of an airport or airbase can pose a hazardous distraction to pilots engaged in the critical phase of flight, i.e. taking off or approaching to land. Furthermore, the objects could be ingested by aircraft engines, causing damage and endangering lives. The height limit ensures that aircraft operate in an environment effectively clear of such aerial activities by taking into account the plausible operating heights of aircraft beyond the 5km radius.
Avenues for Public to Provide Feedback
The Consultation Paper on the plausible changes and related amendments to the legislation on the conduct of aerial activities is now available on CAAS website (www.caas.gov.sg) and REACH (www.reach.gov.sg). Members of the public are invited to provide their feedback via these two sites.
The consultation exercise will close on 12 July 2012.
About the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS)
The mission of the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) is to "Grow a safe, vibrant air hub and civil aviation system, making a key contribution to Singapore's success". CAAS' roles are to oversee and promote safety in the aviation industry, develop the air hub and aviation industry, provide air navigation services, develop Singapore as a centre for aviation knowledge and training, and contribute to the development of international aviation.
For more information, please contact:
Ms Genevieve Yeow
Senior Executive (Corporate Communications)
Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore
Tel: (65) 6541 2082
Email: genevieve_yeow@caas.gov.sg