China tables new rules applying to civilian drone flights and pilots

China has presented a list of new rules applying to drone flight by civilian users, whose objectives for protecting public safety and national security – particularly, it would appear, the latter – don’t exactly strengthen individual liberties in the skies.

Limited details of the drone rules set to come into force next year were published in media reports, including the China South Morning Post. Contents of the “Interim Regulations for Managing Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle Flights” were initially reported by state-run media outlets Thursday, and at first blush made restriction-heavy countries like, say, France, seem wildly laissez-faire by comparison. 

Among reported strictures outlined: a ban on foreign-produced drones, as well as surveying activities within China by pilots who aren’t citizens. Infractions considered serious under new and existing rules may purportedly be punished by deportation – meaning you might want to…