Türkiye Implements New UAV Regulations with Centralized Tracking System

Türkiye's Transport and Infrastructure Ministry has introduced a new regulatory framework for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) aimed at enhancing airspace safety and security. The initiative includes the establishment of a centralized tracking system called İHATTYS, which will categorize UAV operations into three risk levels: open, specific, and certified. Certified drones will be allowed to operate over populated areas and transport people or hazardous materials. The minimum age for remote pilots in the open and specific categories has been set at 16. Foreign-registered UAVs must obtain flight authorization at least 20 days in advance. The system will enable real-time tracking of registered UAVs and impose strict penalties for unauthorized operations. This regulatory overhaul comes in response to the increasing use of drones for various applications across Türkiye.

Key Points: • Türkiye has launched a new UAV regulatory framework with a centralized tracking system. • UAV operations will be categorized into open, specific, and certified risk levels. • Strict penalties will be enforced for unauthorized drone operations.