The Dos and Don’ts of Drone Activity in Malta So Far
Are your ready to fly your drone but you’re not sure how to go about it safely and conform to the law? This post gives a list of simple ‘dos and don’ts’ that walk you through all the current regulations to ensure that you keep within the confines and limits of drone activity.
DOS
Do make sure you have permission to fly your drone
A drone operator or owner requires permission to operate within the prescribed terms and conditions. Remember that Malta’s airspace is controlled. To do this, you can send an email to the Civil Aviation Directorate on civil.aviation@transport.gov.mt or call them on +356 2555 5606.
Do fly your drone in good weather conditions
It is always best to fly your drone during daytime. Avoid cloudy, rainy, or foggy weather as this kind of weather makes visibility poor.
Do keep your drone within your faculty of sight
It is important to keep your drone within your visual perception and within the appropriate spatial perimeters.
Do respect the Data Protection Act
When placing cameras on top of small drones, drone operators and pilots need to keep in mind that images of recognisable people are subject to the Data Protection Act. It is advisable that before you start taking pictures, you seek permission when flying your UAV in public areas. The Data Protection Act does not fall under the remit of the Civil Aviation Directorate’s authority.
If you want to operate your drone in a housing area for filming, ask permission from the neighbouring houses by acquiring a ‘no objection’ consent note from their end to make sure you are guarded when it comes to the Data Protection Act.
Do opt for vacant sites
Rules of Air also apply to other drones in the vicinity as not more than one drone operator can operate in the same area at the same time.
Do understand how your drone works
Make sure you read the manual instructions repeatedly. Familiarise yourself with your drone’s features and learn how to pilot it safely. Remember to check your drone before each flight and to plan your flight.
Do report irregularities
Irregular drone activity can be reported to the Civil Aviation Directorate.
DON’Ts
Don’t endanger anyone
Do not operate your drone when you are under the influence of alcohol or any other abuse. A drone could seriously harm others or damage property or buildings.
Don’t interfere with aircraft operation
Make sure your drone is not flying closer than 5 km from the airport perimeter. Keep clear of helicopters and aeroplanes. Manned vehicles always take precedence over unmanned ones and drones must always give way to manned aircraft. Laser lights or any other bright lights can be perilous if pointed directly at any aircraft, especially when it is taking off or landing.
Don’t operate your drone over people or too close to crowds
Do not operate your drone over people, buildings or vehicles and make sure your drone is not higher than 200 feet or 150 meters above ground level. Avoid flying your drone close to big groups of people. Make sure you keep at least 50 meters away. With the entry of the new EASA regulation, some of these regulations may be subject to change.
Should you still have any queries as whether you are following the right procedures when flying your drone, contact the Civil Aviation Directorate. Hawk Aerospace Solutions also has a team of expert pilots on board, to help you manoeuvre and pilot your drone safely.
Although no official European or Maltese regulation is available on drone activity has yet been established, the consequences of a drone accident can be costly in terms of money, fines and even human life. Both the European Aviation Safety Agency and Civil Aviation Directorate are in the process of placing policies that will regulate the safety of drones.
Further information and queries on the use of drones in conformity with law and best practices, you are free to contact Hawk Aerospace Ltd, by sending an email on this address: info@hawkaerospace.eu.