Unmanned aircraft, or drones, have become popular gifts over the past decade. If you unwrap one this year, there are some very important things you need to know before you send it skyward.
Firstly, it's an aircraft, so it can be a hazard to people, property, and other aircraft. Even if you consider it just a fun toy, you must follow New Zealand Civil Aviation Rules.
The Civil Aviation Authority website has a page dedicated to drones, so read it carefully before you fly. However, here is a starter pack:
Drone rules – Share the skies
Consider others, be responsible:
- Fly no higher than 120 metres (400 feet) above the ground
- Stay a safe and considerate distance away from people and buildings
- Don't fly over private land, such as farms or houses, unless the owner says it's OK
- Keep your drone in sight at all times
- Stay 4 km away from anywhere aircraft are landing or taking off
- It's dangerous to fly drones anywhere other aircraft are operating.
A key message from us is that drones and airports do not mix.
Whether careless or clueless, a person operating a drone improperly near an airport could be prosecuted, but worse, they could endanger passengers on planes and halt flights.
To plan a safe flight and learn more about flying near an aerodrome, have a look at the AirShare website. It also has a special information section for tourists and allows you to download the AirShare app, which you can use to discover where you can fly your drone in New Zealand skies.
If you still have any questions about how to fly your drone safely and legally in New Zealand, please email rpas@caa.govt.nz.
Report unsafe flying
If a drone presents an immediate danger, call 111 and ask for the Police.
To report a rule breach, contact the Civil Aviation Authority.
Freephone: 0508 4 SAFETY (0508 472 338)
Email: isi@caa.govt.nz
You will need to provide the time and location of the incident, and any other details about the person flying the drone.
Image: Pexel
