New consultation on drone safety launched

The government has launched a consultation on drone safety as part of plans to introduce new measures to ensure the successful uptake of drones is matched by strong safeguards to protect the public.

There is likely to be an increase in numbers as the technology is given as presents this Christmas. Drones are playing an increasingly vital role in construction as the industry

Measures included in the consultation include the mandatory registration of new drones; harsher penalties for illegal flying near no-fly zones and new signs for no-fly zones at sensitive sites such as airports and prisons and making drones electronically identifiable so the owner’s details can be passed to police if they are spotted breaking the law.

The consultation will also investigate the issue whether it should be made a criminal offence for misuse of drones.

Drone technology is estimated to be worth around £102Bn by 2025 and the government is keen to take advantage of this emerging technology. There is acknowledgement, however, that it will only be a success if it is done safely, and with public consent.

Current regulations balance clear rules on safety and strong penalties for misuse, and companies using drones for commercial purposes need permission to ensure they are operated responsibly.

Aviation Minister Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon said: “Drones have enormous economic potential and are already being used by emergency services, transport and energy providers and conservation groups to improve services, respond to incidents and save lives.

“While the vast majority of drone users are law-abiding and have good intentions, some operators are not aware of the rules, or choose to break them, putting public safety, privacy and security at risk. The government is taking a common sense approach to tackling this behaviour, ensuring the safe roll-out of this technology.”

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