Mumbai: The Indian Aeromodellers Association (IAMA) is advocating for the Ministry of Civil Aviation to re-evaluate specific clauses within the draft civil drone (promotion and regulation) bill of 2025. The IAMA argues that the current form of the legislation could potentially cripple the long-standing tradition of aeromodelling in India, making it difficult for enthusiasts, schools, and clubs to continue their activities.
In a detailed representation submitted to the ministry last month, the IAMA emphasized a critical point: the bill inaccurately groups aeromodelling with drones, failing to recognize the significant differences between the two. Drones are generally utilized for commercial, industrial, or surveillance purposes, whereas aeromodelling serves as a recreational and educational pursuit, inspiring future pilots, aircraft engineers, and aviation professionals.
The IAMA asserts that the proposed Drone Bill is excessively restrictive and, if implemented without revisions, could effectively end aeromodelling in India. The association contends that the suggested framework, which includes mandatory registration, licensing, type certification, and flight permissions, is not appropriate for manually flown model aircraft that are non-autonomous and pose minimal risk.
According to the draft law, owning or operating any unmanned aircraft without registration and a unique identification number (UIN) would be prohibited. Operating without proper authorization or certification could lead to fines of up to Rs 1 lakh or imprisonment for up to one year. Repeated violations may result in higher penalties and even the confiscation of aircraft and equipment. The bill also classifies violations of restricted airspace rules as "cognisable and non-compoundable," carrying a potential punishment of imprisonment for up to three years or fines reaching Rs 1 lakh.
The IAMA's letter stresses that aeromodelling is a low-risk activity with high learning potential. The association notes that nearly all of its members design, build, and fly their own model aircraft, as opposed to multi-rotor drones. Because these aircraft are individually made and not purchased from manufacturers, registering them under the bill's rules would be impossible.
The IAMA has proposed alternative solutions, including oversight by accredited local clubs, a clear distinction between model aircraft and drones, and exemptions from licensing, UIN registration, and type certification for non-commercial flyers. The association also advocates for defined flying zones, mandatory third-party insurance, and adherence to visual line-of-sight safety regulations.
The association is urging the ministry to reclassify aeromodelling into the educational and sports category, as it was before 2021, to clearly differentiate between commercial drone operations and recreational aeromodelling. It also suggests that the government consult with recognized hobbyist organizations before finalizing the rules.
