The Civil Aviation Department is looking into an alleged drone flight over Victoria Harbour during last week’s National Day fireworks, after footage of the display circulated online. The video reportedly showed a mainland visitor and photography blogger launching the drone from a hilltop and filming the fireworks from above.
Online users questioned whether the flight breached a restricted-flying area, and the video was later deleted. They also alleged that the drone had been flown without permission.
The department said small-drone operations must comply with the Small Unmanned Aircraft Order. Flights outside standard operating requirements or inside a restricted-flying zone require prior permission from the department and/or the relevant authority.
The restricted areas identified include the hilltop, Victoria Harbour airspace and nearby waterfront. A conviction under the order can carry a maximum fine of HK$100,000 and two years’ imprisonment.