Exemption for Search and Rescue Operations

In plain language

Public safety agencies (such as police and emergency services) are exempt from standard drone flight restrictions, flight rules, and permit requirements when conducting urgent search and rescue operations. However, basic safety rules like the prohibition on flying under the influence of alcohol still apply.

Requirement as structured

The provisions regarding flight permissions in restricted airspaces (Article 132-85), operational limitations (Article 132-86, except paragraph 1), and approval procedures (Articles 132-87 to 132-89) do not apply to unmanned aircraft flights conducted by prefectural police or other designated entities for search, rescue, or other urgent purposes during accidents.

Original regulatory text

第百三十二条の九十二　第百三十二条の八十五、第百三十二条の八十六（第一項を除く。）及び第百三十二条の八十七から第百三十二条の八十九までの規定は、都道府県警察その他の国土交通省令で定める者が航空機の事故その他の事故に際し捜索、救助その他の緊急性があるものとして国土交通省令で定める目的のために行う無人航空機の飛行については、適用しない。