This morning (30th May) the Department for Transport (DFT) have suggested new amendments to the Air Navigation Order 2016 in parliament. They intend for the amendments to have a positive impact in relation to drone safety around airports. Following the government consultation last year, they are suggesting the following amendments to the act:
- Operators of drone above 250grams need to be registered with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
- Pilots flying these drones (known as ‘remote pilots’) need to obtain and acknowledgement of competency from the CAA. Having then passed these requirements set by the CAA, they will need to undertake an online safety test. This is to prove their knowledge of the restrictions in place.
- A height limit is suggested to be set at 400ft for drone flights of all types.
- A restriction from all drones flying within 1km of protected aerodromes in the UK. This is unless you have permission from the Air Traffic Control unit in question.
Measures 1 and 2 are likely to come into force later with the 30th November 2019 the date suggested. This allows drone users to have time to adjust. It also allows the CAA to complete their work on the systems, and create the educational materials required to implement these policies.
Measures 3 and 4 are likely to come into play sooner on 30th July 2018. In regards to both the 400ft and airport restriction, where drone operations are deemed to be safe enough, the CAA will have the power to exempt the operators from adhering to these rules. This allows safe, innovative and positive commercial use of drone technology to continue to flourish.
How can airports prevent illegal drone activity from continuing when these measures are in place?
Drone detection systems are widely available on the market, such as DJI’s AeroScope. This drone detection technology allows users to track drones at up to 20km.
It is a drone licence plate detection system, and can also track the pilot operating. It can provide airport security teams with the data required to be able to quickly and effectively protect against drone intrusion.
Measure 4 will particularly have a positive impact for aerodromes. The 1km rule will allow airports to have far improved tracking ability for drones within the surrounding area.
If you’re looking to get started with your drone strategy, COPTRZ can help. To date, COPTRZ has helped over 1000 businesses to access the benefits of drone technology, therefore providing cheaper, faster and safer operational capability.
Contact us here at COPTRZ today on 0330 111 7177 or email info@coptrz.com to get started with your drone detection strategy or to find out more about the amendments raised by Department For Transport.
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