Drone Regulations Come into Effect in Japan

<p><strong>Japan&#39;s revised civil aviation law that regulates the use of drones and other unmanned aerial vehicles came into effect on Thursday.</strong></p> <p>The new regulations require operators to get government approval to fly such aircraft in areas designated as densely populated, at events, and near airports, public broadcaster NHK reported.</p> <p>Permission is also required for flying out of the operator&#39;s sight, or at night.</p> <p>Users will have to report the purpose of a flight, the route, and the production number of the machine.</p> <p>They must also have at least 10 hours of experience flying a vehicle.</p> <p>The rules provide for fines of up to 500,000 yen (about US$4,000) for operating an unmanned aerial vehicle without necessary permission.</p> <p>The new regulations come after a drone was discovered on the roof of the Prime Minister&#39;s Office in April.</p>