markaguille
Captain
Flight distance : 2031818 ft
Jersey
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Hi Paul,
This is a quote from Paul Dale from FPV.
Hi guys. The FPV exemption is something I worked to have the CAA issue in 2009. I (as FPVUK.org) have worked with the CAA to make sure it has been re-issued every year since. The latest version was re-issued a couple of days ago (http://publicapps.caa.co.uk/docs/33/1168.pdf).
It NEVER allows anyone to fly higher than they could when not flying FPV. The exemption only imposes extra limits and safety measures.
Back in 2009 the CAA and myself came up with some extra rules and limits that would allow FPV flying to be carried out (without the impractical "only with a buddy-lead" arrangement that BMFA had adopted).
Firstly we looked at the altitude limit. There is no altitude limit for normal recreational LOS flying for aircraft under 7kg (see Article 166(4) of the ANO (IE the 400ft part only applies over 7kg)). CAA agreed to allow FPV only up to a limit of 1000ft (it was actually less in year one, but increased to 1000ft in a subsequent renewal).
Second was the max weight - initially it was 1.5kg if I remember rightly. It's now 3.5kg for multi-rotors.
And, the key thing, was that the pilot must have a properly briefed Competent Observer with them - who can fulfil the safety intent of Article 166(3). IE Can keep direct unaided visual contact with the aircraft.
People often misunderstand and think that normal RC modellers can fly to 400ft and the FPV exemption allows them to fly higher. That's simply not the case.
But remember; the pilot, or the competent observer in his stead if they're flying under the terms of the FPV exemption (and meeting all of the extra safety requirements) MUST have direct unaided visual contact with the aircraft. So the max height is very much restricted.
Personally, the only time I could think of a reason to go to such height would be to capture a large area such as one of the islands around where I live and on a very clear day I would love to try this, unfortunatly I know several people with "drones" who, on there maiden flight, the first thing that spring into their minds is, "lets see how high this thing goes".
Fortunately DJI has seen sense in setting an altitude limit (500m). Unfortunately in the small island of Guernsey where I live, there are planes above us, non stop, sometimes at no more than 1,000 feet.
Lets all prey for common sense mate.
Regards
Mark G.
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