The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) is currently running a drone safety awareness campaign. It aims to raise awareness with drone users about the safe and responsible operation of drones.
The guidelines apply equally to hobby users and to commercial operators such as we at Drone Pilots. They say it is neither safe nor legal to operate drones in the following circumstances:
- Near airports
- Within restricted areas surrounding airfields & aerodromes
- If a drone is or will be a hazard to another aircraft in flight
- Drone use in military-controlled airspace or other restricted areas (e.g. prisons)
- Drone flights 400ft (120m) above ground level or 50ft (15m) in certain airspace
- Farther than 300 metres from the controller or outside a controller’s direct line of sight
- Within 30 metres of any person, vessel, vehicle or structure not under your direct control
- Over an assembly of more than 12 people (e.g. concerts, sporting events, group gatherings, parades)
- In a negligent or reckless manner so as to endanger life or cause damage to the property of others
The IAA also reminds drone users of their responsibilities under the Small Unmanned Aircraft (Drones) and Rockets Order (December 2015), which governs the use of drones in Ireland. It requires all drones weighing over 1kg to be registered with the IAA. Meanwhile, drones weighing less than 1kg are not allowed to fly at heights above 50ft (15m).
We at Drone Pilots are happy to confirm what we fully comply with all regulations and guidelines. Our operators are fully trained and licenced, and each flight we undertake is properly planned to avoid any breaches.
For accurate, safe, and fully compliant drone services, just contact us at any time. We’re standing by to deliver for you.