TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport has installed a surveillance system developed by the National Chung Shan Institute of Science and Technology to detect and locate unauthorized drones and their operators near the airport.
When the system detects an unapproved UAV, the airport first assesses the risk to determine if takeoffs and landings need to be stopped. Airport staff and aviation police then proceed to the location identified by the system to inspect the drone and locate its operator, according to CNA. According to the airport, flight operations restart once the area is confirmed safe.
Since its deployment in June 2023, the system has detected 28 cases of unauthorized drone activity. It has also significantly reduced the average runway closure time from 37 minutes to around 10 minutes when flight operations are suspended.
Before the system was installed, the airport primarily relied on visual reports from pilots and the public to identify unauthorized UAVs. During that time, seven cases led to temporary closures of both runways. The airport said unclear report locations and long search times often made it challenging to locate the drone operators.
NCSIST said the system can also help the military spot enemy aircraft during wartime and support joint air defense operations. The agency added that the system will be connected to the Civil Aviation Administration’s drone management system. NCSIST also plans to develop a mobile app so police can get real-time updates.
The airport said that activities such as raising pigeons or releasing sky lanterns, fireworks, kites, or balloons are prohibited in the surrounding area. Anyone planning such events must obtain prior approval from the administration. Individuals in breach of the rules may be fined between NT$300,000 (US$9,300) and NT$1.5 million.
Under the Civil Aviation Act, drones are not allowed to fly near airports. This includes areas within five kilometers where runways end and flying above 60 meters close to runways.
