Important points to note when carrying out flying activities in Macao

In view of the fact that some of the Macao residents may not be aware of the need to apply for permission to carry out flying activities here, the Civil Aviation Authority of Macao SAR (AACM) takes the opportunity to issue this news release to inform the public of the important points to note.

In accordance with the Article 6 of Portaria No. 233/95/M of 14 August which has been revised by Chief Executive’s Despacho No. 295/2010, and Article 67, Chapter IX of Air Navigation Regulation of Macau which was approved by Executive Order No. 46/2013, a resident or an organization who wishes to carry out a flying activity in Macao must get the written permission from AACM. The flying activities include performing an organized release of latex balloons, flying a captive balloon, a kite, a hot air balloon, a lantern, a model aircraft or an unmanned aerial vehicle which is over 7 kg, installing or operating external laser lights or search lights, performing aerial shows and so on.

AACM points out that for flying a model aircraft or an unmanned aerial vehicle weighing less than 7 kg, such activity does not fall into the regulation scope of the above Portaria and the Air Navigation Regulation of Macau, which therefore does not require permission from the Authority. However, AACM emphasizes that it does not prevent the compliance with the necessary procedures imposed by any other authorities and urges residents to check carefully.

In addition, according to Article 4i) of Decree Law No. 52/94/M of 7 November which stipulates the prohibition of activities without the permission of the aeronautical authorities which will surely affect aviation safety or affect the efficiency of the construction and work of aviation facilities, a resident must pay attention to the following particulars when flying the model aircraft:

1.Model aircraft cannot be flown in the air space within 500 meters of  the heliport at the Hong Kong and Macao ferry terminals, Macau International Airport and the hangar at Coloane;

2.Model aircraft cannot be flown in the air space above the Amizade Bridge;

3.Model aircraft must be flown at a height not greater than that of the surrounding buildings;

4.The take-off and landing point should be separated from the public;

5.The model aircraft operator must be on spot and ensure that the aircraft is flown within the range of his/her eyesight;

6.The flying activity must be separated at a safe distance from the public and the buildings;

7.Model aircraft cannot be flown when the thunderstorm warning, the heavy rain warning or the tropical cyclone warning is hoisted.

Application with detailed information can be submitted to AACM by post, fax, email or in person. No fee is charged. The evaluation and approval process takes no more than 10 days.

AACM wishes to highlight that the main objective of the legislation is to ensure aviation safety. It is not the objective to purposely create a means to disturb people from leisure. Ever since Macau International Airport has been put into operation, the air transport has become an important means for Macao residents to travel abroad. The SAR government has the responsibility to establish a decent clearance environment to guarantee the safe operations of the industry. It is through this way that the living and the traveling of our residents can be protected.

The full details of the above requirements can be obtained at the AACM website through http://www.aacm.gov.mo/law.php?pageid=75.