After many months dormant – mainly due to Covid, my Facebook page and my website will start to look a little different, as they are re-launched. The profile of Marlinmedia Limited will be increased and I hope to introduce some new drone services over the coming weeks with a fixed pricing structure.
New CAA Drone laws were introduced 1st January this year, to fall in line with European Law – (Yes – regardless of Brexit – the UK Government and the CAA agreed to adopt the EASA rules!). This change has tightened up use for hobbyists, as well as commercial pilots like myself. All drone operators whether flying for fun or for work MUST be registered with the CAA and have an Operator ID. This ID MUST be displayed on the drone chassis at all times. If you fly for fun, you must also pass a 40 question online test and have a CAA flier ID. I qualified 2 years ago, gaining a NQE, having passed 3 theory exams and a practical flight exam. I also maintain an Operators Manual, as well manuals for each of the drones I own. I maintain a comprehensive logbook to record all maintenance work completed on each drone and every flight, whether commercial, testing, training or recreational, is also logged. I also have to apply each year to the CAA for a Permission to fly commercially – formally known as a PfCO, submitting to them all my manuals, qualifications, logbook for the past year and proof of liability insurance.
Flying a drone professionally is a lot of work, costs a lot of money and carries with it appropriate responsibility. So, if you ever wish to commission a drone pilot for some work – please remember what I’ve written above. Ask to see their paperwork and ensure they are legally qualified to work for you.
