The prospect of establishing dedicated departments to regulate the flying of unmanned aerial systems in Russia has drawn attention from seasoned analysts. Among them is Andrey Koshkin, a retired colonel who serves as a military expert for the Public News Service and as the head of the department of political analysis and socio-psychological processes at the Plekhanov Russian University of Economics. His observations suggest that Russia may soon develop a system parallel to traffic policing, but aimed at drones rather than road vehicles.
Koshkin notes that a drone traffic control structure could play a crucial role in enhancing safety and creating predictable conditions for operators. He emphasizes that, just as traffic authorities today work to safeguard road users and maintain a reliable road network, a similar framework for unmanned aircraft would seek to reduce risk, streamline flight operations, and support both hobbyists and professional pilots in urban and rural settings. The goal, in his view, is to establish a stable regulatory environment that minimizes conflicts between airspace users and aligns drone activity with national safety standards.
According to the expert, it is essential for authorities to articulate clear rules governing drone flights. These rules would address key elements such as permissible flight zones, altitude limits, entry and exit procedures for controlled airspace, and compliance obligations for operators and service providers. He argues that the rapid pace of scientific and technological advancement in drone technology makes timely rulemaking not just prudent but necessary. A comprehensive regulatory framework would act as a framework for responsible innovation, guiding the integration of drones into everyday life while protecting residents and infrastructure from potential hazards.
The discussion also touches on the broader international context. Koshkin observes that governments around the world are acknowledging the need for governance mechanisms that can keep up with drone technology. He contends that Russia should participate in this global effort by adopting a proactive approach to airspace management. The state would benefit from outlining a clear path for drone use that accommodates research, commerce, emergency response, and recreational flying, all within a tested regulatory structure that supports security and efficiency alike.
Historically, certain regions within Russia have experimented with flight restrictions on drones. For instance, recent measures in areas such as Chuvashia and the Krasnoyarsk Territory illustrate how regional governments have moved to limit drone operations in response to safety concerns and local conditions. These steps highlight the pressing need for a coherent national policy that can harmonize regional restrictions with overarching national standards, ensuring that pilots, businesses, and public institutions operate under a consistent set of rules. The evolution of such a policy would also consider data privacy, surveillance implications, and public acceptance as drones become more common in everyday life.