The use of commercial drones for both business and leisure purposes has been on the rise in recent years. The Drone Market Report 2022-2030 report supports this fact. He explains that the forecast is that the global unmanned aircraft market will reach a valuation of $55.8 billion by 2026, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.8%.
At the height of the UAV market, there is also a demand for personnel capable of operating them. In this sense, the Director of Transport and Art Insurance at Caesars, César Munilla, has provided information that, according to him, are essential requirements for any professional pilot.
Importance of standards
To pilot drones in Spain, it is mandatory to comply with a series of safety regulations established in the Execution Regulation 2019/947 and the EU Delegated Regulation 2019/945.
In addition, there are some restrictions in urban areas and near airports. For example, it is forbidden to fly over buildings in cities, towns or inhabited places and people (concerts, beaches, demonstrations, etc.) without a specific permit. Nor is it allowed to fly at least 9 kilometers from the airport and aerodrome.
Finally, each pilot must keep the aircraft within authorized visual range and not fly it in adverse weather conditions.
Drone use violations fall into recreational and professional categories. In the first case, operators without aeronautical knowledge can be fined between 45,000 euros and 225,000 euros for very serious offenses that result in accidents. In the case of commercial use with aeronautical knowledge the penalty is even higher. Minor offenses can be fined up to 70,000 Euros and more serious offenses more than 4.5 million Euros.
Data Protection Act
Dissemination of images of people or private places requires their authorization, so the operator must take care at all times not to violate data protection law and people’s right to privacy by publishing without their consent.
In this sense, Munila recalls that in order to avoid any problems arising from the misuse of personal data, there are data protection insurances that will protect the insured (company or self-employed) from the risks that may arise from the processing of personal data. Are. Biological law on the protection of personal data and other regulations.
Flying license
A license is required to fly such an aircraft only if its weight is more than 250 grams. In addition, all users intending to fly a drone must register as operators at the AESA Electronic Headquarters in order to obtain an operator number.
Civil liability
According to Articles 11 and 27 of the Air Navigation Law, civil liability insurance is mandatory for both recreational and commercial purposes. Therefore, the person who manipulates the drone is solely responsible for the damage caused to it and will be liable to sanctions and monetary fines.
Fire retardant plate
Whenever the aircraft exceeds 250 grams, a fireproof plate must be installed on the casing as identification, which must include the manufacturer’s name, drone model and serial number, as well as the owner’s name and contact information.
License plates must be affixed in a clearly visible location, meet certain standards and be made of strong material to prevent damage in an accident.
