Recently, Kuwait introduced comprehensive laws, which aimed to regulate drones, air sports, and light sport aircraft. It imposes licensing and security requirements. And a person can face a prison term of up to three years or even a fine as high as KWD5,000, if they violate some of these rules. Here’s all about the rules related to drones.
Kuwait Issues Rules For Drones
According to the Decree-Law No. 89 of 2026 that was published in issue No. 1808 of the official gazette Kuwait Al Youm, a broad regulatory system has been established. Yes, as revealed in a report by Gulf News, this is a 44-article legislation, which covers the registration, manufacture, import, sale, and operation of drones and light aircraft. It also extends to commercial and recreational air sports activities.
One of its important provisions bans the use of an aircraft that is covered by the law before any approval is given by the Ministry of Interior. Moreover, a breach of this requirement can result in imprisonment for up to two years. Not to mention, it can also result in find that ranges from anywhere between KWD1,000 to KWD2000 or either of the penalties.
Some Violations Come Under Serious Offences
Certain violations come under more serious offences, which include unlicensed air sports activities, commercial operations, and flights around airport prohibited areas, and manufacturing or aircraft imports. These carry fines anywhere between KWD3,000 and KWD5,000 and prison time of up to three years. It should be noted that this law also gives the security and military authorities in Kuwait the power to respond to aircraft, which are considered a threat. They may detect, disable, intercept, take control of, or even shoot down an aircraft that is flying over prohibited or restricted areas where necessary. This is especially true if it threatens the security or safety of people or property.
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Important License, Prohibited Area To Know
So basically, owners will now have to register their covered aircraft with the Civil Aviation Authority. Not to mention, they will have to obtain an airworthiness certificate before they operate in Kuwait. Additionally, they must also report changes pertaining to registration information within seven days. It should be noted that aircraft cannot be operated without an operating license. Not to mention, pilots and anyone who assists with their operation should also carry a proper license. These licenses are to be issued under the aviation safety rules of Kuwait after they receive approval from the Ministry of Interior.
It should be noted that flights in the airport zones and over areas that are designated as prohibited or restricted are banned. So operators and pilots will have to comply with instructions from the authorities if their aircraft enters this kind of area. Moreover, flights between sunset and sunrise are also prohibited. Operations in unsuitable conditions, unless there is special permission, are not allowed either. Drone pilots should also keep their aircraft within the permitted visual or extended visual line of sight that is specified by their license. Not to mention, they are responsible for avoiding collision with people, property and other aircraft.
Finally, it’s worth mentioning that existing aircraft owners get a grace period of one year from the law, taking effect in order to bring their operations into compliance.
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