On the first day of his vacation in Singapore, Chinese national Zhong Zhensheng, 68, found himself in legal trouble after flying a drone illegally to capture aerial shots of Marina Bay. His actions led to significant fines and legal consequences.
Legal Proceedings and Fines
A month after his arrival in Singapore, on July 25, Zhong was fined $12,000 after pleading guilty to three offences under the Air Navigation Act. Additionally, two other charges under the same Act were considered during his sentencing.
Details of the Drone Flight
Zhong had headed to Marina Barrage with the intent to fly his DJI Mavic Air 2 drone to take aerial photographs of Marina Bay. Over two separate flights, he captured 38 photographs, with each flight lasting about 12 to 13 minutes and reaching a maximum altitude of 148 meters above mean sea level.
Regulations and Protected Area Status
In March 2024, Marina Barrage was designated a protected area under the Air Navigation Act. This regulation mandates that anyone operating a drone for recreational purposes above 60 meters above mean sea level in this area must obtain a permit. Zhong, however, did not have the necessary permit for his drone flights.
Detection and Legal Action
The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) detected Zhong’s drone activity on the same day and alerted the police. Deputy Public Prosecutor (DPP) Cheah Wenjie informed the court that Zhong had registered his drone in China and was aware that operating an unmanned aircraft is subject to regulations, including those in Singapore.
Importance of Adhering to Local Regulations
This incident highlights the importance of adhering to local laws and regulations when using drones or other unmanned aircraft, especially in protected or restricted areas. Visitors and residents alike are reminded to be aware of and comply with the legal requirements to avoid legal repercussions and ensure safety.
Zhong Zhensheng’s case serves as a cautionary tale for drone operators, emphasizing the need for compliance with local aviation laws. His attempt to capture the beauty of Marina Bay resulted in significant fines and legal trouble, underscoring the importance of understanding and following regulations while using such technology.
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