CAA Drone safety

Callum Holland from the Future Safety and Innovation Team discusses the UK CAA’s proposed policy on unlocking beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) drone operations using an Atypical Air Environment. We hear how this could work in practice and how your views can help shape the final policy. You can share your views and learn more by visiting: Atypical air environments – Proposed Policy - Civil Aviation Authority - Citizen Space (caa.co.uk)

Most airports, airfields and spaceports have a flight restriction zone (FRZ) that applies to drones and unmanned aircraft. Tom Guest from the CAA RPAS team explains why these FRZs are in place and how they work. We also cover guidance for passengers who are travelling with a drone and what to be aware of when you’re at the airport. Aaron Bassett from Gatwick Airport explains what happens when their systems detect that a drone has been activated and the impact this can have on airport operations. Links and resources: Travelling with a drone (EASA)Details of FRZs and other UAS airspace restrictions (NATS) If you have feedback or suggestions for future episodes please contact dronepodcast@caa.co.uk.

In this episode we talk to Colin Chesterton from the CAA about our plans to roll out scalable beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) flying to operators flying in the specific category. Colin sets out our plans for this exciting change throughout 2023. You can find more information on scalable beyond visual line of sight operations at https://www.caa.co.uk/bvlos

Until 31 August the CAA is running a consultation on proposed acceptable means of compliance and guidance material for drone operations. We’re joined by Callum Holland from our remotely piloted aircraft systems team who helps explain what the consultation covers and how it affects drone users. You can access the consultation and send us your views by visiting https://consultations.caa.co.uk/corporate-communications/amc-and-gm-to-uk-regulation-eu-2019-947/

Earlier this year we ran a consultation around proposals to delay the introduction of classifications for legacy and traditional category drones. We received a fantastic level of responses from the drone community and in this episode Callum Holland from our RPAS team explains the conclusions we’ve now come to and our recommendation to Government for taking the issue forward. You can read the consultation response document at https://www.caa.co.uk/cap2367

The CAA sponsored #shotonmydrone photo competition received over 800 entries and showcased the wide range of stunning images that can be captured with this technology. The competition included categories for 'Countryside', 'Urban day', 'Urban night' and 'Christmas'. You'll hear the winners share the stories behind their images, how they stay safe in the air and tips on using drones for photography! See the winning photos at https://www.caa.co.uk/cap2338 The image shown with this episode is called 'Roundabout' and was taken by Andy Wells. The photo won the overall prize in the CAA's #shotonmydrone competition and also won the 'Urban night' category.