CAA Regulations & UK law states that we are unable to fly more than 500 metres away from the operator dependent on the subject being filmed provisions can be made to incorporate vehicles which an operator can fly from.

We are legally required to fly below 400ft/120m,each shoot is different and if an increased height is required special permissions from the Civil Aviation Authority can be obtained

We use a range of drones which can carry various types of camera and payloads depending on the requirements of the task, our range of DJI drones are equipped with 4k and 5k cameras as well as telephoto lenses cameras giving a magnification of up to x28 times.

Depending on the weather and the time of drone required a typical flight with one of our Mavic drones lasts for around 35-40 minutes before the batteries need to be changed. We always ensure we have enough batteries to cover any drone shoot (including spares for additional filming).

We plan and save repeat flights using waypoints. these are ideal for time-lapse videos for example a building development, a road or bridge construction structure and agricultural fields.

Yes, planning and operating a drone indoors is generally not a problem, (special drones designed for internal flights will be used) these drones come equipped with propellor guards if the environment is particularly challenging to fly within.

D&A Drone Services has £5 million public liability insurance (which can be increased if required on request). with the industry leading drone cover company All our pilots are fully licensed and have passed the CAA-approved exams and flight assessments. They all hold the established industry Remote Pilot Qualification (RPQ-s) for multi-rotor aircraft up to 25kg.

We hold an Operational Authorisation (previously known as PfCO/PfAW) granted by the C.A.A (Civil Aviation Authority). Our extended permissions allow us to operate within congested areas as well as during night hours. We are happy to supply a copy of our permissions and insurance documents on request.

Drone laws in the UK are getting tougher by the day, as are flight areas, all of which are governed and covered by the Civil Aviation Authority. A lot of congested areas predominantly around Cities and Towns, Airports and Government buildings including Royal residencies are covered by NFZ (No flight Zones) and ENFZ (Enhanced No Flight Zones) Before we undertake any flight, we will carry out our own due diligence to maintain the flight is carried out legally, safely and responsibly. If your requested flight falls within either of the above specific authorisation will need to be sought which we will undertake prior to confirming any flight. We understand this process and what is required and have been granted numerous permissions to fly within these restricted areas. (This authorisation could take up to 14 days to achieve).

We monitor the weather forecast 5 days in advance of any shoot. If the signs are not good we talk to the client 48, 24 hours prior to the shoot and on the morning of the shoot. We will do everything within our powers to film on the agreed date, however living in the UK we are always at risk of inclement weather regardless of what season we are in.

No monies or deposits will be lost due to the weather as these will be carried forward onto the next available date.

Drones are electrical and electrics and moisture do not really mix although the aircraft can take a small amount of water. Ideally, we try and avoid flying in wet conditions as the images are also affected as well as the drone.
 

Yes, however the pilot will make a call depending not only on wind speed but also perceived gusts. Our drones will operate safely in up to 30mph winds but gaining a stable image can be tricky if the wind exceeds and gusts increase beyond 35mph regularly. Safety of the crew, equipment and surrounding buildings is always our priority.

The final call on any shoot is solely down to the drone pilot. His or her decision on the day is final and will be fully supported by all staff and management of D & A Drone Services.