Heliguy are pleased to be working directly with a National Qualified Entity (NQE) and the CAA, to bring simple flying advice and CAA rules to the fore.
At heliguy™ we
advocate applying flying rules to all flights and like to make sure all UAV flyers work correctly, and safely, within the CAA approved rules.
It’s useful to read through the following advice and just refresh your knowledge of the distances and parameters to functioning safely. Most UAV users are within much smaller distances so we know most rigs in our world are managed correctly.
If you would like any advice on becoming an accredited pilot for commercial work, so you too can seek permissions to work with drones, we are
working with NQE's to deliver PFAW qualifications. Please feel free to
give us a call.
CAA
CAA: Fit to Fly
Ensure you and your unmanned aircraft are fit to fly prior to conducting any flight.
Check that your unmanned aircraft is not damaged, and all components are working in accordance with the manufacturer's user manual.
Ensure that you are free from the effects of alcohol or any medication that causes drowsiness.
Ensure you are fully conversant with the operation of your unmanned aircraft and the emergency procedures before you take-off.
CAA: Safe in the Air
You must maintain unaided visual line of sight of your unmanned aircraft at all times during flight.
You are responsible for avoiding collisions with other air users, people and objects.
DO NOT fly your unmanned aircraft in any way which may endanger people or property.
Stay clear of airports and airfields at ALL TIMES.
CAA: Safety for those on the ground
It is illegal to fly your unmanned aircraft over a congested area (street, town, city).
In accordance with regulations, DO NOT fly your unmanned aircraft within 50m of any person, vehicle, building or structure, or overhead groups of people at any height.
CAA: Fly in suitable weather
Ensure you refer to the environmental limitations as stated in the manufacturers user manual.
ALWAYS fly your unmanned aircraft within the manufacturer guidelines and the meteorological limits of your own competency (ability).
CAA: Legal Obligations
DO NOT fly your unmanned aircraft above 400ft from the ground and no further than 500m from your operating position.
Remember unaided visual line of sight must be maintained at all times during flight which may be less than the legal 500m maximum requirement.
If you intend to fly your unmanned aircraft for any commercial gain (activity) you must obtain UK CAA Permissions for Aerial Work (PFAW). Failure to do so could lead to criminal prosecution.
Think about what you do with any images you obtain. Observe Data Protection legislation.
Heliguy would also like this opportunity to remind all users of
reasons drones crash. This knowledge will allow the pilot to be a safe and lawful flyer.
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