Do & Don'ts Regarding Operation of RPAS

Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS)/ Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS), commonly known as drones/ UAV, is a new addition to the aviation sector. This technology has promising effect on economic growth of India; both manufacturing and service industry. As more people enter the commercial and recreational hobby drone scene; the prospects for drone accidents/ incidents also multiply. This applies not just to newcomers/ amateurs but even to professionals. Here are some operational safety tips to ensure that you have a better and safer flying experience, not just for yourself but the people around you.

Do's

• Ensure your Drone (except Nano in uncontrolled airspace upto 50ft) is Digital Sky “No Permission- No Take off” (NPNT) Compliant.
• Obtain Unique Identification Number (UIN) from DGCA for operating in controlled airspace and affix it on your drone.
• Obtain Unmanned Aircraft Operator Permit (UAOP), if applicable from DGCA for commercial operations and keep it handy.
• Obtain Permission before each flight through Digital Sky Platform.
• Ensure drone is in good condition (not damaged) and fit for flying safely.
• Keep an eye on interference: Interference can be from mobile devices or blockage of signals, do watch out when flying your drone.
• Fly only during daylight (after sunrise to before sunset).
• Fly in good weather: Good weather lets you not only fly your drone better but also keep track of it in the air.
• Fly in visual line of sight (VLOS): Always be within visual range of your drone.
• Follow Flying Guidelines.
• Do your homework before spending the considerable money for a drone. Make sure you clearly understand all operational and regulatory aspects.
• Be aware of Airspace Restrictions/ No Drone Zones.
• Do stay away from airports and heliports.
• Respect privacy of people.
• Keep local police informed about your drone flying activity. If you are ever approached by police provide all requisite information.
• Do log your flights and intimate concerned authorities (like DGCA, local police etc) of any incidents/accidents.

Don’ts

• Don’t fly a Nano drone above 50ft (15m) from the ground level.
• Don’t fly a Micro drone above 200ft (60m) from the ground level.
• Don’t fly drones more than 400ft (120m) from the ground level.
• Don’t fly drone near other aircraft (manned or unmanned).
• Don’t fly drone near airports and heliports.
• Don’t fly drone over groups of people, public events, or stadiums full of people without permission
• Don’t fly drone over government facilities/military bases or over/ near any no-drone zones.
• Don’t fly drone over private property unless permission is given.
• Don't fly drone in controlled airspace near airports without filing flight plan or AAI/ADC permission (at least 24 hours before actual operation).
• Don’t drop or carry hazardous material.
• Don’t fly drone under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Don’t fly drone from a moving vehicle, ship or aircraft.

Source : Dos and Dont's on Operation of RPAS