Petra, Jordan is a world-renowned archaeological site that attracts thousands of tourists every year. The ancient city, carved into the rock, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Jordan’s rich cultural heritage. However, with the rise of drone technology, Petra’s authorities have had to take measures to regulate the use of drones in the area.
In 2017, the Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA) announced new regulations for drone use in Petra. The regulations were put in place to protect the safety and privacy of visitors, as well as to preserve the site’s historical and cultural significance.
Under the new regulations, drones are not allowed to fly over or near any of the archaeological sites in Petra. This includes the famous Treasury, the Monastery, and the Royal Tombs. Drones are also prohibited from flying over the Petra Archaeological Park, which covers an area of over 264 square kilometers.
Furthermore, drones are not allowed to fly within a 5-kilometer radius of Petra’s boundaries. This is to ensure that drones do not disturb the local wildlife, which includes endangered species such as the Nubian ibex and the Sinai rosefinch.
The PDTRA has also set specific times when drones can be flown in Petra. Drones are only allowed to fly between 6:00 am and 8:00 am, and between 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm. This is to minimize the impact of drones on visitors and to avoid disturbing the natural light conditions that make Petra such a unique and beautiful place.
The regulations also require drone operators to obtain a permit from the PDTRA before flying their drones in Petra. The permit application process involves submitting a detailed flight plan, including the purpose of the flight, the type of drone being used, and the areas of Petra that will be flown over. The PDTRA reviews each application on a case-by-case basis and may deny permits if they believe that the flight will pose a risk to visitors or the site’s cultural heritage.
The PDTRA has also established a system for monitoring drone activity in Petra. The authority has installed cameras and other surveillance equipment to detect and track drones that are flying in restricted areas. If a drone is detected, the PDTRA will contact the operator and ask them to land their drone immediately. Failure to comply with the regulations can result in fines and legal action.
In conclusion, the regulations for drone use in Petra are designed to protect the site’s cultural heritage, ensure the safety and privacy of visitors, and preserve the natural environment. While drones can provide stunning aerial views of Petra, they can also pose a risk to the site’s fragile ecosystem and disturb the peace and tranquility of the area. By following the regulations and obtaining the necessary permits, drone operators can help to ensure that Petra remains a beautiful and awe-inspiring destination for generations to come.