Drones and model aircraft- new CAA test for operators

[43rdRecceReg]

I'd contemplated getting a drone lately, equipped with a 4K camera, until- that is- I read the new UK regulations.
Filming tank action, from the air, really could be fun especially given that the prices of high-spec drones have plunged lately (er..not crashed ). Top brands like Mavic are now coming within reach of the must-have-more-gizmos 'n' gadgets boys. (Gals too... )

Here's my favourite example of what can be done with a camera/gimbal equipped drone, and a model plane. Even though this footage is now seven years old, and tech has moved on vastly, it's still elegant and immersive.

phpBB [video]

However, for those in the UK wishing to dabble in aerial antics, and cinematography- the CAA has some new rules. In fact, these not only apple to 'drones', but also to model aircraft and gliders too (250g-20Kg):
https://register-drones.caa.co.uk

https://register-drones.caa.co.uk/drone-code
I guess we have to thank the d*ckheads who flew drones near Heathrow, and military bases, to thank for the new spoilsport regs. Then again, maybe crazed cineasts have been taking aerial liberties
over nudist colonies. Who knows? Still, if you're up for a drone, and the new tests, do follow the links.

[Estnische]

I had a try of a Mavic a few years ago that belonged to my niece’s partner. It was an amazing piece of kit and opened my eyes. I’ve since been tempted by the falling prices, the crossover possibilities with RC transmitter gear and the opportunities to survey buildings in my line of work. But realistically I don’t need another hobby.

[43rdRecceReg]

I had a try of a Mavic a few years ago that belonged to my niece’s partner. It was an amazing piece of kit and opened my eyes. I’ve since been tempted by the falling prices, the crossover possibilities with RC transmitter gear and the opportunities to survey buildings in my line of work. But realistically I don’t need another hobby.

Yes, agree with you there, Brett.
In fact, I really don't have enough time (not sufficient readies) for existing hobbies, but passing a CAA test at my advanced age, might be an interesting challenge (especially where vision's concerned ).

My son sends me footage taken by his pet Mavic. It follows him around like the family dog (or Parrot, maybe) in Switzerland, when he goes on bike rides. The tech is now truly amazing, and the failsafes are now much more dependable. You don't want your prize drone running out of juice over a lake, or cliff edge... . New tech ensures the drone knows when its times up, and how to get home (the same can't be said for habitual boozers )...

[43rdRecceReg]

phpBB [video]

Having mentioned Mavic, it seems only reasonable to show an example of what one can do. This brief review does that.
The contributor makes some good points, but uses irritating vocal fry now and then.
I'm assuming this was made by 'Plymouth' in Plymouth in the USA, and not the real Plymouth, in England- nor the one in Nova Scotia. Thus, he won't have to sit the CAA test.

[EAO]

As I don't fly RC anymore (crash is a more apt term) I don't follow all the particulars anymore. However I do know that over here in the States new rules are coming out that will definitely put a damper on flying anything if they pass. Aloft Hobbies, my favorite dealer for radios, receivers, etc. had a petition going on earlier this Summer to try to circumvent the pending legislation.

I guess we have to thank the d*ckheads who flew drones near Heathrow, and military bases, to thank for the new spoilsport regs.

43rdRecceReg, I believe that you're right about the as*clowns who have spoiled the fun!

Cheers,
Eric.