The key to flying drones safely is education

Amid reports of near misses with passenger aircraft and government proposals for stricter regulations. ConsortiQ, an integrated drone solutions specialist, believes that the key to flying drones safely is education.

Georgina Connaughton, Operations Executive at ConsortiQ revealed, ÂDrones are no longer a mysterious technology and they are becoming a viable part of many business models. WhatÂs more, they are now a widespread consumer item used for entertainment purposes. With such a broad spectrum of users there is no common educational ground, leading to skilled, respectful UAV pilots sharing the skies with uneducated operators  like those who are ultimately responsible for the reported incidents that put the safety of others at risk.Â

The CAA (Civil Aviation Authority) governs civil aviation and the use of drones in the UK. In order to help achieve its goals of keeping airspace, pilots and the public out of harm it has published the Air Navigation Order, outlining guidelines to follow when performing any mission. As well as applying to commercial drones, hobbyist drone pilots must also abide by regulations set by the CAA in order to fly legally and safely.

Georgina Connaughton continued, ÂThere are guides and laws put in place to uphold safety in the industry, but the real problem lies in ensuring these are understood by all drone pilots. The CAA has updated its Drone Code guidelines and released Drone Assist, an app to help budding pilots quickly learn the rules for flying a UAV, and this is a great move  yet only the beginning. We urge all businesses that want to use drones to achieve excellent outcomes to enlist the help of experts. Entering the world of drones with assistance from experienced pilots can leave you with invaluable, extensive knowledge to be used in all future flights and by doing this, even your very first missions can be completed without ever risking the safety of others.Â

In addition to the newly launched Drone Assist app and Drone Code guidelines from the CAA, the UK government has recently announced proposals for all drone users to register their drones, taking a safety test before being able to fly. The need for action to improve safety in the industry remains clear, yet the solution remains in discussion.

Georgina Connaughton concluded, ÂThe key to flying drones safely is education and experts in the industry, such as the team at ConsortiQ hold the key to this valuable knowledge.Â