Darwin residents are reminded to abide by drone regulations and safety rules by the Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority, especially those around zones where exercise Pitch Black 22 is being conducted.

Airspace restrictions for recreational drones exist for large parts of the Territory, especially around populated areas, and can be viewed at ok2fly.com.au.

“Exercise Pitch Black will see an increase in aircraft above Darwin and its surrounds throughout August,” said Senior Sergeant Dan Whitfield-Jones. “It is your responsibility to ensure that you do not fly drones in areas where restrictions are in place, heavy penalties may apply if you operate drones illegally.”

CASA rules, which can be found on the agency’s website, include keeping your drone within eyesight, not flying your drone over 120 meters from ground level, not flying your drone over populated areas and always monitoring restricted flight zones.

“There are numerous apps recommended by CASA that provide additional and up-to-date information in regards to drone regulations and safety,” Sergeant Whitfield-Jones said.

The agency’s rules also indicate that drones could not be flown anywhere or at any height within a restricted area.

Police reminded that the agency’s restrictions apply to drones of all types, sizes and weights, including drones that might be considered small toys.