SHANGHAI - The first test-flight base for civilian drones opened in Shanghai on Thursday, according to the East China Regional Administration of Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC).

There are about 110 manufacturers of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) in east China, nearly 30 percent of the national total, said Jiang Chunshui, Communist Party secretary of the administration.

East China also boasts 40,000 registered drones, more than one third of the national total, according to Jiang.

Private drones are popular in China and illegal drone activity has become a problem, especially at airports.

China has required civilian drones weighing more than 250 grams to be registered under real names from June 1. Over 120,000 drones have been registered, according to Ke Yubao, executive secretary of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association of China.

"Drone users need a test flight ground where they can learn the law and regulations," said Ke.

The base is located at Qingpu district in western Shanghai. Drones are required to fly under 150 meters and all test flights are be monitored for safety.