Thanks for explaining! - I guess it does make sense for most players.
The down-side is that it removes quick and competent maneuvering from the advanced players. In the original you could quickly lift-off and blast the opponent right away -- but with this new restriction you can't use your skills optimally (the attached video is a mod'ed version we made to challenge us even more - that's how we played it mostly).
Please consider adding an option for "Turn off safe lift-off" for us super nerdy experienced Raketti pilots :)