Baku: Azerbaijan is set to introduce tighter oversight and inspection mechanisms for civilian autonomous unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) under proposed amendments to the Law on Aviation, APA reports. This development was discussed during a session of the Milli Majlis, reflecting the country's increasing focus on regulating drone technology.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the draft legislation defines an autonomous UAV as a civilian autonomous transport vehicle operating through an automated control system without direct or continuous human intervention during flight. Operators are tasked with programming flight routes, ensuring automated systems function properly, and holding the necessary certifications.
The proposed amendments introduce remote control centers to oversee the operation of autonomous UAV systems from a distance. To operate, UAVs must obtain registration certificates, operator certifications, and operational permits from relevant state authorities. Their flights will be confined to designated zones approved by competent government bodies.
The legislation sets rigorous technical and cybersecurity standards for the design and manufacture of autonomous drones, requiring them to operate safely under various conditions and remain functional during system failures, minimizing risks to people, property, and other airspace users.
The draft law mandates that individuals and entities, including foreign companies' branches and representative offices, obtain operator certificates per the Law on Transport. Operators must monitor automated systems, intervene in emergencies, store operational data for at least six months, and report accidents or incidents immediately to the relevant authorities.
Drone owners and operators must ensure aircraft compliance with manufacturers' technical requirements and that certified operators supervise autonomous operations. The draft law also requires creating remote control centers equipped with updated software, cybersecurity measures, and mandatory security audits.
All autonomous drone operations within Azerbaijan's airspace will require authorization from a dedicated UAV flight management and coordination center. Operations in controlled airspace and around airports will need prior approval, with operators submitting flight requests at least three hours before the planned operation.
Authorities have a three-hour window to approve or reject flight requests, with denials possible if incorrect information is submitted, adverse weather conditions present, or restrictions exist within designated flight zones. The legislation grants authorities the power to conduct oversight and compliance inspections of certified operators, ensuring civilian UAV circulation follows legal guidelines.
The draft law was put to a vote and passed on its third reading.