Attention! Drone & Low Flights Banned Oct 27–Nov 10

Source: OT-Team(G), 上海市人民政府

Shanghai authorities have recently issued a notice on the safety management of drones and other "low, slow, and small" aircraft, aiming to ensure the security of low-altitude airspace during the 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE) and to prevent any illegal or unauthorized flight activities.

1. Definition

The term "low, slow, and small" aircraft refers to low-altitude, slow-speed, and small-sized flying objects. This includes light and ultra-light airplanes, light helicopters, gliders, delta wings, powered delta wings, paragliders, powered paragliders, hot-air balloons, airships, civilian drones, model aircraft (including aviation and aerospace models), unmanned free balloons, and tethered balloons, among others.

2. Flight Restrictions

From 00:00 on October 27 to 24:00 on November 10, 2025, all civilian drones and other "low, slow, and small" aircraft are prohibited from taking off, flying, or being released within Shanghai. Exceptions will be granted only for activities that have obtained official approval, such as logistics transportation, emergency rescue, low-altitude tourism, smart city operations, or manned aerial transport.

3. Registration Requirements

Owners of civilian drones must complete real-name registration in accordance with civil aviation regulations and may conveniently verify their information or submit flight reports via the "Suishenban" online platform. Owners of other types of "low, slow, and small" aircraft must cooperate with local public security authorities to provide relevant registration and identification information.

4. Flight Approval Procedures

Any flight operations involving civilian drones or other "low, slow, and small" aircraft within Shanghai must meet the appropriate qualification requirements, comply with radio frequency regulations, and submit prior applications to the Air Force as well as relevant civil aviation control or meteorological departments. Flights may only be conducted after official approval is obtained.

5. Penalties

Individuals or organizations that violate the Interim Regulations on the Management of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Flights or the provisions of this notice—by conducting unauthorized drone or low-altitude flight activities—will be subject to penalties by relevant authorities according to their respective jurisdictions. In serious cases, emergency measures may be taken in accordance with the law. Those found to have violated public security management regulations will face administrative penalties, while criminal offenses will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.