The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has launched its ‘Share the Air’ campaign in a bid to unite drone users and General Aviation (GA) enthusiasts. Offering both parties the opportunity to learn from each other, the campaign aims to promote and ensure safe flying for all.
Drone users will be given the opportunity to attend open days created specifically for drone communities, run by their local airfields, flying clubs and flying schools.
Attendees will be given the chance to see for themselves the range of flying opportunities that exist in their local areas, as well as receive top tips on how they can use their drones responsibly, enabling them to expand their love of flying.
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The ‘Share the Air’ initiative aims to demonstrate to drone pilots the significance of the role they play within the aviation community, and help them build stronger links with local airfields.
Through increased collaboration between drone users and the General Aviation community, the CAA hopes to ensure all parties are aligned in their use of the skies, and are able to share the space responsibly, whilst still getting the most out of their local environment. It is the latest exciting step in DroneSafe, the CAA’s successful national education campaign to showcase the importance of following guidance around safe drone usage.
Jonathan Nicholson, Assistant Director of Communications at the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) commented that “Drones being the latest ‘must have’ in tech, we’ve seen a huge spike in drone ownership across the country. What’s vital now is that we ensure both drone users and the GA communities are equipped to share the air in a safe, yet enjoyable way that benefits both parties.”
“By enlisting the help of the GA community, drone enthusiasts have a fantastic chance to be welcomed to the fold of flying, whilst simultaneously learning more about the environment they operate in. It might even inspire them to follow in the footsteps of the pilots they will be speaking to.”
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People looking to understand more about responsible drone flying should take a look at the CAA’s Dronecode, a simple set of rules around safe and responsible use:
• Don’t fly near airports or airfields.
• Remember to stay below 400ft (120m) and at least 150ft (50m) away from buildings and people.
• Observe your drone at all times.
• Never fly near aircraft.
• Enjoy responsibly.
The Dronecode is available to download at www.dronesafe.uk.
Please note: the Dronecode is for consumer drone use, those using a drone commercially must be approved.
