The State Administration of Radio, Films and Television (SARFT) issued a regulation on procedures related to aerial photography, the Beijing Times reported Monday.

The move follows a spate of accidents in recent years that occurred due to lack of adequate regulations and supervision.

Use of aerial photography is becoming increasingly common in television, according to SARFT, and involves greater risks than in normal flight. Regional authorities are required to formulate relevant management procedures for television aerial photography, such as strict application procedures and conditions under which aerial photography is permitted.

When rented aircraft are used for aerial photography, they must be fitted with appropriate safety equipment, according to the regulations, and both sides should sign a legally binding agreement.

The regulations also limit film crews to three persons, and only approved telecommunication equipment may be used during filming. The film crew must also take out insurance before boarding the plane.

(Beijing Today October 9, 2004)