Small Drone Management School: What to Watch Out for When Taking Off

The use of unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones, is becoming increasingly common. In addition to being very useful in various activities, ordinary citizens are also opting to purchase drones as this attractive gadget can create fantastic photographs and videos. However, to use a drone, it is necessary to adhere to certain instructions.

Choosing a Manufacturer

Of course, there are many manufacturers of drones. Well-known brands of drone manufacturers in the Croatian market include Yuneec, Autel, and DJI, which is currently the most popular manufacturer. Prices range from two and a half thousand kuna and up, and you should choose a drone model that suits your own needs and preferences.

Basics of Drone Management

After you have chosen a drone manufacturer and purchased it, it is time to learn how to operate it. Although it may seem like a toy, it is very important to know how to manage it as careless operation can lead to negative consequences. First of all, it is important to practice flying the drone in a large open space where the aircraft does not pose a danger to other people and objects. Also, make sure you are far enough away from the drone to avoid injury.

To take off, gently push the left stick forward, and to keep the drone in the air, maintain pressure. To lower the drone, slowly pull the left stick back, but keep in mind that when the drone is about five centimeters above the ground, pull the same stick all the way back to land the aircraft.

To move forward and backward, use the right stick, which you pull forward or backward, and to steer the drone left and right, move the same stick left or right.

Watch Out for Regulations

As stated on the e-Citizens website, drones can be used for recreation and sports as well as for flight operations. To use a drone for recreation, it is important to emphasize that the drone can only be launched in uninhabited areas, but you must obtain approval from the Croatian Air Traffic Control.

You also need to obtain a permit for the use of the radio frequency spectrum, and if your aircraft weighs 20 kilograms or more, you need to arrange a drone insurance policy. If your drone weighs more than five kilograms, you must have a non-flammable identification plate with an identification mark and your details on the drone.

Another purpose of using drones is flight operations, which include, among other things, filming and advertising. You can use a drone for flight operations at a distance of at least three kilometers from the airport and the approach or departure area of the airport.

You also need to submit an application to the Croatian Civil Aviation Agency for the registration of the unmanned aircraft system operator and obtain approval for conducting flight operations in category C2. It is important to note that in both cases, flying the drone is only permitted during the day, and more detailed information can be found on the website of the Croatian Civil Aviation Agency.