CAA: Increased surveillance of drone use during the holidays

The Civil Aviation Agency (CAA) has urged operators and pilots of unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) to comply with regulations on their safe use. They said increased drone use is expected during the upcoming holidays, which is why surveillance will be stepped up.

"We remind you of the obligation to respect all rules, emphasizing that flights over gatherings of people are not allowed without special approval from the Agency (dron@caa.me). Special caution is also necessary near airports, or in controlled flight zones, where approval from the competent air traffic control - the Airspace Management Unit (AMC Montenegro) is required," the statement reads.

They point out that fines for non-compliance with regulations range from 500 to 2.000 euros, and that the Criminal Code of Montenegro prescribes sanctions for unauthorized photography and publishing of recordings.

The use of drones is regulated by the Air Traffic Act and the Regulation on the Conditions for the Safe Use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems, which implements European regulations.

"From the aspect of air traffic safety and security, supervision over the implementation of regulations is carried out by the CAA, in cooperation with the Police Directorate. Other issues, such as the protection of privacy, personal data, and the like, are the responsibility of other institutions," the statement reads.