Drone Filming & Flying Legally: What You Need To Know

Drones also referred to as remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) have become a popular item, commercially and recreationally. They’re fun gadgets but also effective tools for businesses with warehouse surveying, search and rescue aids, delivery tools in otherwise unaccessible terrains & many more capabilities. This blog will break down the restrictions on flying drones from a video production point of view, ensuring all of your video or photographic footage is legal. The restrictions of flying drones is consistently updating due to the innovative nature of the products year on year, so it’s best to revisit the Civil Aviation Authority  website to keep up to date with the most recent news. What are the current drone laws? Currently, operators must keep drones within their line of sight, and under 400ft (120m). They must not be flown within 150ft (50m) of people and property, or within 500ft (150m) of crowds and built-up areas and 50 metres of a person, vessel, vehicle or structure not under the control of the pilot. Most regulations are slightly blurred when it comes to exemptions. You're allowed to be in a closer range when taking off and the weight of your drone can effect these guidelines. You must avoid flying it within 150 metres of a congested area. It is imperative that drones are kept well away from aircraft, airports and airfields. Those who endanger the safety of an aircraft through the use of drones could face a five-year prison sentence. Legal responsibility for [...]