Northern Territory Police would like to remind the public of the rules and regulations around drone usage in the lead up to exercise Pitch Black.

The Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) has implemented a number of rules to ensure drones are operated safely. These rules can be found on the CASA website and include, keeping your drone within eyesight, not flying your drone over 120 meters from ground level, not flying your drone over populated areas and always monitoring restricted flight zones.

Airspace restrictions for recreational drones exist for large parts of the NT, especially around populated areas, and can be viewed at ok2fly.com.au.   

You must not operate your drone anywhere or at any height within a restricted area. These restrictions apply to drones of all sizes and weights, including drones that might be considered small toys.

Senior Sergeant Dan Whitfield-Jones said, “Exercise Pitch Black will see an increase in aircraft above Darwin and its surrounds throughout August.  It is your responsibility to ensure that you do not fly drones in areas where restrictions are in place, heavy penalties may apply if you operate drones illegally.

“There are numerous apps recommended by CASA that provide additional and up to date information in regards to drone regulations and safety.”