1. Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS)/ Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS), commonly known as RPAS/ UAV, is a new addition to the aviation sector. This technology has a promising effect on the economic growth of India; both the manufacturing and service industry
2. As more people enter the commercial and recreational hobby RPA scene; the prospects for RPA accidents/ incidents also multiply. This applies not just to newcomers/ amateurs but even to professionals.
3. Here are some operational safety tips to ensure that you have a better and safer flying experience, not just for yourself but for the people around you.
1. Ensure your RPA (except Nano in uncontrolled airspace up to 50ft) is DigitalSky “No Permission- No Takeoff” (NPNT) Compliant
2. Obtain a Unique Identification Number (UIN) from DGCA for operating in controlled airspace and affix it on your RPA
3. Obtain Unmanned Aircraft Operator Permit (UAOP), if applicable from DGCA for commercial operations, and keep it handy
4. Obtain Permission before each flight through DigitalSky Platform
5. Ensure RPA is in good condition (not damaged) and fit for flying safely.
6. Keep an eye on interference: Interference can be from mobile devices or blockage of signals, do watch out when flying your RPA
7. Fly only during daylight (after sunrise to before sunset)
8. Fly in good weather: Good weather lets you not only fly your RPA better but also keep track of it in the air.
9. Fly-in visual line of sight (VLOS): Always be within the visual range of your RPA.
10. Follow Flying Guidelines
11. Do your homework before spending considerable money on an RPA. Make sure you clearly understand all operational and regulatory aspects
12. Be aware of Airspace Restrictions/ No RPA Zones
13. Do stay away from airports and heliports
14. . Respect the privacy of people
15. Keep local police informed about your RPA flying activity. If you are ever approached by the police provide all requisite information.
16. Do log your flights and intimately concerned authorities (like DGCA, local police, etc.) of any incidents/ accidents
1. Don’t fly a Nano RPA above 50ft (15m) from the ground level
2. Don’t fly a Micro RPA above 200ft (60m) from the ground level
3. Don’t fly RPA more than 400ft (120m) from the ground level
4. Don’t fly RPA near other aircraft (manned or unmanned)
5. Don’t fly RPA near airports and heliports
6. Don’t fly RPA over groups of people, public events, or stadiums full of people without permission
7. Don’t fly RPA over government facilities/military bases or over/ near any no-RPA zones
8. Don’t fly RPA over private property unless permission is given.
9. Don’t fly RPA in controlled airspace near airports without filing a flight plan or AAI/ADC permission (at least 24 hours before actual operation).
10. Don’t drop or carry hazardous material
11. Don’t fly RPA under the influence of drugs or alcohol
12. Don’t fly RPA from a moving vehicle, ship, or aircraft