The revised aviation law that regulates flying drones was approved on September 4 by the Japanese Diet. As the use of unmanned aerial vehicles has been on the rise in various fields such as photographing, agrochemicals spraying and infrastructure inspection, restrictions on the use of drones have been sought after a series of fall accidents. The amended law will prohibit users from flying UAVs near airports or over densely populated districts without authorization of the Transport Minister.

Drones will be allowed to fly only in daytime and need to be accompanied by personnel in sight. It will be prohibited to use drones at the time of large events such as festivals and exhibitions. (2015/09/07)