SINGAPORE – H3 Dynamics, a commercial drone operator, is set to face charges following an incident where their drone crash-landed at a condominium in One-North. The TUNDRA 2 drone, manufactured by Hexadrone, lost control during a test flight on July 19, striking a building and causing a small fire. Although no injuries were reported, the drone was damaged, and burn marks were left on the floor.
Investigation Findings
The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) uncovered several violations:
- H3 Dynamics failed to comply with approved operational procedures.
- The drone was modified without prior approval from CAAS.
- The operator lacked a valid drone pilot license.
- The Centralized Flight Management System (CFMS) was not properly used to monitor the flight.
No safety issues were found with the base model of the TUNDRA 2 drone.
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Consequences and Actions
H3 Dynamics will be charged under the Air Navigation Act, with potential fines of up to S$100,000. The unlicensed drone operator and involved team members received 12-month conditional warnings. CAAS suspended H3 Dynamics’ operations, requiring them to complete corrective actions, including improving pilot training and enhancing safety protocols.
Next Steps
The suspension has been lifted, but H3 Dynamics is now restricted to conducting aerial photography and videography. They are no longer permitted to conduct drone testing or demonstrations. Additionally, the company will be subjected to more frequent safety audits to ensure compliance moving forward.
This incident highlights the critical importance of adhering to safety regulations when operating drones, especially in urban areas.
