And sometimes regulations are only available in a language I can not understand (many do not have English language versions of regulations posted). And it's often the case that foreign government regulations, if posted at all, are incredibly dense, written in highly bureaucratic "legalese." It's hard enough for most folks (even educated, motivated ones) to fully understand their own nation's laws and regulations even when posted in their native language. Try that with foreign language, foreign government websites.
As an example, I'm hoping to visit Turkey later this year. I've found little online that appears reliable/consistent. According to the "Drone Traveller" website, their high-level summary looks great and makes it appear that for a small drone (eg a Mini), there are minimal requirements: recreational and even commercial drones are allowed, after a simple registration, no mandatory insurance, 120 meter max altitude, no badge needed, just keep away from airports and respect privacy of people. Simple, reasonable. Awesome! Right? But user comments posted below their summary say all kinds of contradictory things: the stated requirements are only for commercial drones; registration is required and only Turkish citizens can register, use of drones by foreigners is strictly prohibited (you must have a Turkish National ID number to register, and without registration, it's illegal); several posters warn that upon arrival in Turkey, customs will confiscate your drone. One person reports customs took his drone and he had to pay them $70 to get it back as he was leaving the country. Another says he did no registration at all (nor any other regulatory compliance) and just flew his drone a lot and had no trouble whatsoever.
Meanwhile, over on UAV Coach, they repeat many of the "it's easy, no problem!" happy talk -- only have to register if drone is over 500 grams, approval only required for commercial flights, 120 meter altitude limit, etc. Then they go on to say foreigners can NOT register, and customs WILL seize your drone upon your arrival unless you have an approved "technical compliance" certificate (which may require you to submit "your criminal record from your embassy" -- I can only imagine that...). As an encouraging example, they show drone footage shot right over central Istanbul (the old city showing lots of huge, world-heritage religious monuments which are about as sensitive a place as you can get), and in a city as densely populated as could be imagined anywhere. I'm more than a little skeptical that it's legal (never mind wise) to just launch your drone and fly it around there, and expect no interest from the authorities. Maybe I'm just needlessly paranoid? Turkey's government is not exactly known for it's soft, gentle management of issues. And yeah, I've seen
that movie, so I don't want to get on the wrong side of the Turkish police.
I'd prefer to play by the rules if that's at all possible (or maybe I'd just leave the drone at home). But it's hard to know what the *#@! rules actually are.
mavicpilots.com
