I. Core Points of Hong Kong Drone Regulations

1. Legal Basis
2. The management of drones in Hong Kong is supervised by the Civil Aviation Department (CAD), based on the "1995 Air Navigation (Hong Kong) Order" and its subsidiary legislation.

3. Starting from June 2022, the new version of the "Remote Piloted Aircraft Guidance" was implemented, further detailing operational standards.

4. Drone Classification and Restrictions

5. A1 Class (≤7 kg):
   • Allowed to fly in non-restricted areas but must comply with basic safety rules.
6. A2 Class (7-25 kg):
   • Requires prior application for a license from the CAD.

7. B Class (>25 kg):

   • Strictly prohibited for use by non-government or specially authorized institutions.

8. No-Fly Zones

9. Absolute No-Fly Zones:
   • Within 5 kilometers of Hong Kong International Airport (including all of Lantau Island and the airspace over Victoria Harbor).
   • All government buildings, military facilities, prisons, Disneyland, and other sensitive areas.
10. Restricted Flight Areas:
    • Dense urban areas (such as Central, Causeway Bay), and altitudes higher than 300 meters above sea level.

11. Real-time Inquiry Tool:

    • Use the official CAD app "CAD Drone" or website to check real-time no-fly zone maps.

12. Flight Height and Line-of-Sight Requirements

13. Maximum flight height: 90 meters above ground level (approximately 300 feet).
14. Must keep the drone within visual range of the operator.
15. Nighttime Flying: Requires special permission applied for in advance.

II. Operational Qualifications and Registration Requirements

1. Registration and Training
2. Drone Registration: Drones weighing more than 250 grams must be registered (via the CAD website).

3. Operator Qualifications:

   • For drones with a take-off weight ≥7 kg, operators must pass the CAD examination and obtain a "Remote Pilot Competency Certificate."

4. Special Flight Permits

5. If flying in no-fly zones, at night, or beyond visual line-of-sight, applications must be submitted at least 28 days in advance, accompanied by flight plans, insurance certificates, and other documents.

III. Safety Responsibilities and Insurance

1. Legal Liability
2. Operators are fully responsible for property damage or personal injury caused by drones.

3. Violations can result in fines up to HKD 100,000 and imprisonment for up to 2 years.

4. Insurance Recommendations

5. Strongly recommended to purchase third-party liability insurance (coverage should be ≥HKD 1 million).

IV. Suggestions for Tourist Operations

1. Recommended Flight Areas

2. Country parks (such as Dragon's Back, Tai Mo Shan), Sai Kung East Dam, Nam Sang Wai, and other open areas.

3. Pitfall Avoidance Guide

4. Avoid densely populated areas; do not fly in adverse weather conditions.

5. Check battery power and equipment status before flying.

6. Compliance of Popular Aerial Photography Spots

7. Victoria Peak: Takeoff prohibited (restricted area).
8. Lamma Island: Flight allowed but stay away from docks and residential areas.

V. Emergency Handling

• If the drone loses control or an accident occurs, immediately contact the CAD (+852 2910 6366) and the police (999).