UK legislation publishing in 2018 to reduce drone risks, says LMA aviation chair

Proposed legislation to place new responsibilities on drones weighing more than 250g - such as mandatory registration of the individual and required safety awareness tests - is due be published in spring 2018.

This was set in a statement on November 26 by Aviation Minister, Baroness Sugg, and has since been welcomed by the Lloyd's Market Association (LMA) Aviation Committee.

“The implementation of drone-specific legislation is aimed at ensuring common safety standards, thus reducing the risks associated with drones," said Paul Maguire, chair of the LMA aviation committee and head of aviation at Faraday Underwriting.

In March 2017, the LMA Aviation Committee submitted a detailed response to the Department for Transport’s (DfT) ‘Consultation on the Safe Use of Drones in the UK’, where it suggested that the introduction of primary legislation is necessary to align the regulation of drone operation with those of manned aircraft.

To reduce unsafe flying, the proposed legislation could involve drones being banned from flying near airports, or above 400ft. Police will also be given authority to seize and ground drones which may have been used in criminal activity.

Maguire continued: "Regulatory enhancements that trend towards improved safety standards in this market are welcomed by insurers. The LMA Aviation Committee is pleased to see the UK again leading the way with respect to the safe integration of drones into existing airspace and we look forward to working with other aviation authorities and regulators to help align international standards.”

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