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You will also need to ‘develop basic procedures for conducting the type of flights you want to do and set these out in an Operations Manual.’ The CAA defines commercial drone flying as ‘…any flight by a small unmanned aircraft…in return for remuneration or other valuable consideration.’Īccording to the CAA, you will need to ‘demonstrate a sufficient understanding of aviation theory (airmanship, airspace, aviation law and good flying practice) and pass a practical flight assessment (flight test).
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If you’re planning to use a drone commercially, you will need permission from the CAA.
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What if I’m planning to fly a drone commercially? You can find more information on drone licenses on the CAA website. According to the CAA, the operator ID is responsible for ‘making sure that only people with a valid flyer ID use their drone or model aircraft’. You’ll need to sit a theory test to get your flyer ID, and you’ll also need to register for an operator ID. In the most serious cases, you could be sent to prison.’ You can also be fined for breaking the law when flying. Do I need a license?Īccording to the CAA, ‘It is against the law to fly a drone or model aircraft without passing the theory test or registering. The overarching theme, as captured in Article 241, is that ‘a person must not recklessly or negligently cause or permit an aircraft to endanger any person or property.’ In other words, it’s the drone pilot’s responsibility to fly safely.Īll of these laws are governed by the Civilian Aviation Authority (CAA). The Air Navigation Order 2016 is the law that sets out most of the restrictions on operating a drone in the UK.
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With this in mind, we’ve created a list of frequently asked questions when it comes to the rules and regulations surrounding drone filming. However, nobody wants a fine for improper use, so it’s important to follow drone flying regulations.Īs a video production company (but not a law firm, so this article doesn’t constitute legal advice of course) that regularly uses drones to capture incredible footage, we’re pretty familiar with the rules surrounding drone filming. It has made previously unimaginable camera angles accessible and affordable for both amateurs and professionals. Drone filming has transformed the video production industry.
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