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Influencer apologizes amid probe into alleged drone flight in restricted nuclear plant zone

From Liberty Times · () Chinese

Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Under investigation
  • Taiwanese influencer Zhong Mingxuan is under investigation for allegedly operating a drone within a restricted flight zone near the Nuclear Three power plant.
  • Zhong apologized for any potential violations, stating his intention was to capture scenic beauty and that he has registered his drone.
  • If found guilty of violating airspace regulations, he could face fines ranging from NT$300,000 to NT$1.5 million.

Taiwanese influencer Zhong Mingxuan faces scrutiny after a complaint alleged he flew a drone within a restricted airspace near the Nuclear Three power plant in Kenting. The complaint, filed with the Civil Aeronautics Administration, suggests a violation of the RCR45 restricted zone, a safety-controlled area surrounding the facility.

This part I am sorting out the shooting locations, flight records and related information from that day, and will cooperate with the competent authorities to clarify.

— Zhong MingxuanResponding to allegations of flying a drone in a restricted zone.

Zhong addressed the controversy on Threads, explaining his intention was purely to capture the beauty of the Nanwan (South Bay) seascape for his travel vlog. He asserted that his drone is registered and underwent real-name authentication before takeoff. However, he acknowledged that basic procedures do not exempt him from adhering to specific airspace regulations for different locations.

He stated he is compiling flight records and location data to clarify the situation with authorities. Zhong expressed his understanding that as a public figure, he must be more diligent in verifying airspace rules and application procedures before flying, especially in sensitive areas. He pledged to accept responsibility if any wrongdoing is confirmed.

As a public figure, I know that in the future when I film all over Taiwan, I can't just see beautiful scenery and want to fly; I must confirm the airspace, regulations, and application procedures in advance.

— Zhong MingxuanAcknowledging his responsibility as a public figure regarding drone usage.

Military social media accounts highlighted that operating a drone in such restricted zones requires prior application and approval from the Civil Aeronautics Administration and the power plant. Failure to comply could result in substantial fines, potentially between NT$300,000 and NT$1.5 million, according to the Civil Aviation Act.

Thank you all for the reminders and guidance. If the final investigation results confirm I made a mistake, I will also bear the responsibility that should be borne.

— Zhong MingxuanAccepting potential consequences for his actions.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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