Use of Drones at the Club
The club is in restricted airspace, it is therefore illegal to fly without the RAF’s permission and the Club’s permission.
Any use of drones launched at and over NCSC leased property should be formally sanctioned by the Vice Commodore in writing to the named proposed operator of the drone.
All operators are to have a current and in date CAA Flyer ID and Operator ID. (Note it is illegal to fly without one). The operator is comply with the CAA Drone code.
Use of drones will only be permitted after the requirements listed below have been complied with.
Drone use requirements:
- The proposed operator to complete a risk assessment for the specific event or occasion, this risk assessment should be in line with A2 Certificate of Competence training.
- The person flying the drone is to have an in date CAA Flyer ID and Operator ID.
- It would be expected that the operator has an A2 Certificate of Competence
- Insurance to fly the drone – with evidence.
- Appropriate permission to launch the drone – written evidence from the Vice Commodore and RAF.
- Controlled air space not violated, the whole club and waters are in the restricted area of Syerston Airdrome (see NATS map). Drones are flying objects and therefore have to abide by the Civil Aviation Authority guidelines and Air Traffic Control and the Drone Code. The pilot should be aware of any exclusion zones or limits that may require additional permission. It is illegal to fly at the club unless there is specific permission from Syerston (military) airfield. NOTAMS to have been checked for time of flight. Drone Assist App (Altitude Angel) is a good start point.
- Storage of the batteries. The batteries are LiPo batteries. They are highly flammable and categorised as dangerous goods. If there are drones on site, the batteries need to be stored appropriately and those responsible for health and safety need to be aware of them.
Drones give sailors a truly unique perspective of action on the water. Footage can be used for promotion of sailing clubs and specific events. Yacht and dinghy crews have used drone footage when training to help them get the leading edge on the competition, so they can fully observe and understand their crew and rig set up. You should however not get closer than allowed as in the Drone Code.