Drones

This guidance sets out the arrangements and checks required for drone operations on University property.

Drones are small unmanned aircraft that are often referred to under other terms including SUA, UAS and UAV. For the purposes of these guidelines we will use the commonly recognised term of drones.  The use of drones has become increasingly common for aerial photography, videography, research and aerial surveys particularly within Geographical and construction projects. As such, the university has set out a policy for drone use that covers both commercial use and recreational flying. This policy aims to set out a minimum set of assurances to ensure that all drone flights are carried out safely and within the regulations as set out by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

Drone flying of any sort is not permitted on University Property without prior permission being granted

Drone flying on University Premises can be split into three categories, and these might require different steps to grant approval:

1. Third Party Commissions (this relates to staff wanting to hire any drone operation on behalf of the university on or off University premises, or any third party wanting to perform any drone operation on University Premises)
2. In House Drone Operations (this is the flying of drones owned and insured by the University and Operated by approved University Staff on University Premises)
3. Recreational Drone operations (this is the flying of any drone not owned and insured by the University on University Premises)

For more information, general enquires, or help with obtaining or completing forms please email: drones@worc.ac.uk  

The University is a registered Drone Operator with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and has been since 2010. All of its listed pilots hold appropriate qualifications and all drones are covered by insurance.

The Drone and Model Aircraft Code

Drone Regulations 2022