These vehicles differ from the common radio controlled model aircraft in several ways. Firstly, a radio controlled model is always within visual range and contact ofthe operator whereas a UAV has an on-board Autopilot system that usesa combination of gyro stabilizers, static and pitot sensors and GPSto allow it to fly where ever directed

The radio control model also has a size and weight restriction placed on it by CAA, however a UAV such as Global Hawk is the size of a full scale aircraft and capable of inter continental flight missions.

UAV’s have many potential tasks from military observation platforms thru to police and maritime surveillance. They can carry sensors to detect atmospheric conditions or fly above volcanoes to sniff out gases, the main advantage is the ability to place a sensor suite in an aerial situation, at a fraction of the cost of an equivalent platform, and with no airborne pilot.

The UAV’s that we operate are classified as mini UAV’s. This class of UAV typically weighs under 15Kg and has a wing span of around 2.5 meters. They can be electric or internal combustion powered, with durations of up to 8 hours. CAA is currently formulating a tiered structure specification for these vehicles to operate under, starting with a basic“experimenters” category and moving thru to advanced designs with the ability to directly interact with other airspace users.Accordingly each level will be afforded “privileges” based on its ability to interact and provide features for safe operation.