Are you CAA compliant?
Answer
Remote pilots are trained, tested, and registered with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), ensuring full compliance with UK airspace regulations.
Are you insured?
Answer
Absolutely. We carry full commercial drone insurance, including public liability cover up to £5 million, meeting all insurance requirements for commercial UAV operations.
Do you conduct pre-flight risk assessments?
Answer
Yes. Every mission begins with a detailed pre-flight risk assessment covering airspace restrictions, weather conditions, proximity to people and property, ground hazards, and emergency procedures. On-site, we also perform a dynamic risk assessment to adapt to real-time conditions.
Do you obtain permissions for flight?
Answer
Yes. We handle all necessary airspace permissions, including ATC (Air Traffic Control) coordination, landowner permission, and any required NOTAMs (Notice to Air Missions) for restricted or congested areas. Flights in controlled or restricted airspace are only conducted once all clearances are secured.
What are your safety protocols during flight?
Anwer
Safety is our top priority. We follow strict standard operating procedures (SOPs), maintain visual line of sight (VLOS)unless otherwise authorised, and always establish safe takeoff/landing zones with appropriate cordons. We also carry out emergency drills and have redundancy protocols in place for technical failures.
How close can you fly to people, buildings, or roads?
Answer
Under current CAA regulations, unless operating under the A1 subcategory (less than 250 grams) or a specific authorisation, we maintain a minimum 50m horizontal separation from uninvolved people, vehicles, vessels, and structures. For closer operations, we use appropriate mitigations and risk management techniques, and may request enhanced authorisation where needed.
Do you comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)?
Answer
Yes. We take data protection seriously. All image and video data is captured, stored, and handled in line with GDPR standards. Client data is never shared or used beyond the scope of the agreed service.
What happens if the weather is unsuitable?
Answer
We constantly monitor weather conditions. If conditions such as high winds, heavy rain, or low visibility compromise safety or quality, we will reschedule the flight at no extra cost. Drone flights are typically limited to winds below 25 mph (12 m/s) and dry weather.
What airspace can you operate in?
Answer
We can operate in both uncontrolled (Class G) and controlled airspace with appropriate permissions. We check every job location using aeronautical charts, NOTAMs, and airspace restriction databases to ensure safe, legal operations.
How do you ensure compliance on construction sites?
Answer
We work closely with site managers and follow site-specific induction and H&S requirements. All pilots wear full PPE, and operate within RAMS (Risk Assessment & Method Statement) documentation protocols where required. Staff will also undertake a site induction and any industry specific training.
Can you fly at night?
Answer
Yes, we are permitted to conduct night operations. All night flights involve enhanced planning including lighting, visual aids, and site safety measures to maintain full operational safety in low-light conditions.
Are your drones maintained and tested regularly?
Answer
Yes. All drones are subject to regular maintenance checks, firmware updates, and pre-flight inspections. Maintenance logs are kept for each UAV and accessories, in line with manufacturer and CAA best practices.
T-Hathaway Aerial Photograpy
Professional Drone Services across Yorkshire
