What is a UAV / Drone?

UAV is an acronym for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (often called Drones), which is an aircraft with no pilot on board. UAVs can be remote controlled aircraft (e.g. flown by a pilot at a ground control station) or can fly autonomously based on pre-programmed flight plans or more complex dynamic automation systems.

Do you need a license to fly Drones?

Anyone who wants to fly a UAV for commercial purposes is required to get approval from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). This is now called a PfCO (Permission for Commercial Operations) A full list of Qualified Operators can be found on the CAA website. http://www.caa.co.uk/Commercial-Industry/Aircraft/Unmanned-aircraft/Unmanned-Aircraft/

Do you need insurance?

Yes, it is a legal requirement and we are covered up to £5 million with our public liability insurance. More cover can be arranged if it is required.

Can you fly anywhere?

The CAA imposes strict rules to ensure public safety, we are bound by these rules under our license conditions. Details of these are on our About Us Page. We will also require approval from the landowner for the take-off and landing site(s).

How close can you fly to people & property?

Our permission requires us to stay 50m away from people and property or 150m from groups of over 1000 people. However, if a person or group is 'under the control' of our pilot, then we can fly as close as is safe to. For property, if we have owners permission we can get nearer. A building survey wouldn't be very effective if we had to keep 50m away!

How high/far can you fly?

We have permission to fly as high as 400ft (approx 120m) above ground level and up to 500m horizontally from the pilot. If you have large areas you need to cover, it may take multiple flights. We can discuss plans to best achieve your vision.