Beijing to ban, confiscate drones starting November as capital tightens airspace security

Beijing will ban the possession, storage and transport of drones within city limits from November 15 under new regulations aimed at strengthening airspace security. — AFP pic

First Published: Monday, 14 Sep 2026 2:59 PM MYT

BEIJING, Sept 14 — Beijing will ban the possession and storage of drones within the city from November 15, further tightening rules that already prohibit their sale.

The new regulations, announced yesterday by the municipal government, will also ban drone flights in the capital’s airspace and prohibit the transport of drones or their components into the city.

Authorities said the measures were intended to “safeguard the security of the capital”.

The rules come after concerns over airspace safety were heightened in June, when a small aircraft crashed into Beijing’s tallest skyscraper, killing the pilot and injuring 13 people.

Drone sales in Beijing have already been banned since May, while owners were previously required to register their devices but could continue keeping them.

Under the new rules, owners must dispose of their drones or move them outside Beijing by November 15 or risk confiscation and fines, with authorities offering subsidies, buy-back channels and free shipping to help them comply.

Exemptions may be granted for purposes including counter-terrorism, agriculture, disaster relief and research. — AFP