Drone Capabilities vs Drone Rules and Regulations

Our drones are capable of operating at distances further than the eye can see and higher than the clouds but that doesn't mean we can just fly around where we like. We have to share the airspace with other aircraft, helicopters and even drones so there are a number of rules in place to ensure safe operations and minimise the risk of collision with other aircraft.

How high can our drones go?

We fly can go all the way up to 400ft above ground level where we take off.

How far away can we fly?

The maximum distance of flight is 500m from the pilot or until visual line of sight of the aircraft is lost (whichever is shortest).

How fast can the drone go?

The maximum speed of our drones is 30mph (assuming no headwind) however we typically keep the speeds much much less to maximise the quality of the video footage captured.

Where can we fly?

There's not many places our drones can't go without proper preparation and planning. Obviously flying a unmanned aircraft on the approach path to Heathrow is a no no, but depending on the required height, location etc. we can liaise with air traffic control to determine suitability of location.

Operating Drones from the Sea?

One location we frequently get requests for is to operate from a Boat or Vessel on water. This requires specialist insurance permission and quotes for this work starts at £800 plus expenses and require approx 4 weeks notice.

As an alternative to this service we are able to operate from the coast within a reasonable distance over the sea.

For further reading on the Air Law Rules and Regulations on this subject see the Air Navigation Order CAP393 and for more details on our specific rules of operation see our Permission for Aerial Work.

By the way if you're looking for proof of the distance drones can operate there are some nice people who have provided some great examples of how not to fly drones in the UK. This chap flew his high above the clouds before it came crashing to the ground, very lucky it didn't hit anyone. Admittedly his drones was flown in a country that does not yet have the laws and regulations in place for managing the growing drone industry but nevertheless it's an example of the capabilities of these aircraft.