Drones in Action: Inspection Work at St Luke’s Church Reduced by over 88 Days*
Drones in Action End User Stories: Inspecting historical landmarks and churches is costly, time-consuming, and often risky due to height, fragile materials, and restricted access.
Traditional methods like scaffolding can be disruptive and expensive, limiting funds available for repairs.
Vantage UAV drone services enabled a safer, faster, and more cost-effective alternative.
At St Luke’s Church, a drone inspection reduced projected repair costs from £350,000 to £50,000 and saved over 88 days of inspection work*, completing the assessment in just 2 days.
Read our most recent Drones in Action Report in full
The report explores how drones are transforming industries – from asset inspection and precision agriculture to complex oil and gas infrastructures – enhancing efficiency, safety, and sustainability across sectors. We update every 6 months.
The UK government’s policy paper, A New Approach to Ensure Regulators and Regulation Support Growth, presents a strategic plan to reform the regulatory system to encourage economic growth and private sector investment. The document highlights key challenges such as regulatory complexity, burdensome processes, and excessive risk aversion, all of which can hinder innovation and competitiveness.
One of the primary objectives is to simplify existing regulations, making them more accessible and efficient. By eliminating unnecessary administrative obstacles, the government aims to create a more streamlined regulatory environment that allows businesses to focus on growth rather than bureaucratic compliance. Additionally, the paper emphasizes the importance of reducing uncertainty by providing clearer regulatory frameworks. A more predictable system would encourage investment and foster confidence among businesses.
Another critical aspect of the proposed reform is addressing excessive risk aversion within regulatory bodies. The government seeks to promote a more balanced approach to risk management, ensuring that regulators do not unnecessarily hinder innovation. By fostering a culture that encourages responsible experimentation and new business models, this initiative could unlock new opportunities for various industries.
The proposed regulatory changes could have significant implications for the drone industry. Simplified regulatory processes may lower barriers to entry for businesses and individuals, encouraging greater innovation and adoption of drone technology. Clearer guidelines would also help drone operators navigate compliance requirements more effectively, reducing the likelihood of unintentional violations and promoting safer operations. Moreover, a shift away from excessive caution could lead to more proportionate and practical regulations, allowing drones to be integrated more effectively across sectors such as logistics, agriculture, and public safety.
“On drones and autonomous technology:
Building on a number innovative drone trials funded by Future Flight Challenge and the Regulators’ Pioneer Fund – including the partnership launched in July 2024 between Argyll and Bute Council and drone specialists Skyports to explore how drone deliveries can benefit remote businesses and communities – the government and Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) have confirmed the extension of the Apian health bridge trial. This trial uses drones to transport blood from cancer patients at Guy’s Hospital for urgent screening by specialists at St Thomas’s. RIO and DfT have also been working with the CAA to accelerate approvals and to develop metrics to boost transparency in their service to the sector.
In addition, the CAA will enable at least two further and larger scale trial operations by the end of 2025. During 2025, the CAA will also launch an initial implementation of the UK’s Drone Market Surveillance Authority, streamlining the process for companies to manufacture and identify drones that are able to pass required safety criteria, which in turn will simplify commercial operations for many UK businesses.”
Overall, the government’s initiative to modernize regulation presents an opportunity to enhance the UK’s position as a leader in emerging industries, including drones. By addressing regulatory inefficiencies and fostering a more innovation-friendly environment, these reforms could drive economic growth and technological advancement in the years to come.
Drones in Action: Stockpile Auditing & Volume Estimating
Drones in Action End User Stories: Traditional stockpile auditing methods can be time-consuming and challenging to verify. Accurate volume estimation is essential for industries such as coal, biomass, and aggregates. However, manual surveys can be disruptive and pose safety risks.
By using drone technology, independent volumetric datasets can be captured 50% faster than traditional quarry surveys.
This approach improves efficiency, safety, and scalability, allowing auditors to access precise digital models remotely.
Read our most recent Drones in Action Report in full
The report explores how drones are transforming industries – from asset inspection and precision agriculture to complex oil and gas infrastructures – enhancing efficiency, safety, and sustainability across sectors. We update every 6 months.
ARPAS-UK disappointed by the CAA’s decision to confirm major Service Charge increases
ARPAS-UK is disappointed with the CAA’s decision to proceed with significant increases to the service charges for Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) for 2025/26, despite our calls for moderation and fairness.
In our comprehensive response to the CAP3047 consultation in January, we stated that the proposed service charge increases for RPAS operators were significant and disproportionate. Today’s publication has essentially confirmed the fees will be introduced as per CAP3047 consultation, with little amendment.`
DSCO: a critical tool but its cost is challenging given the current size of the community
As detailed in the consultation and confirmed through our engagement with the CAA, a major driver behind these fee increases is the ongoing cost of the DSCO online application platform, which reportedly requires £1.7 million per year to operate.
On one hand, we recognise DSCO as a critical tool for the future of RPAS regulation in the UK. A fully digitised platform should enable the adoption of the SORA risk methodology, offering a streamlined, consistent, and predictable application process. It promises to facilitate the approval of higher-risk or innovative operations while aligning the CAA with international safety standards. This benefits not only RPAS operators but also enhances public safety and confidence in the sector.
The £8 million development cost has, commendably, been funded from the CAA’s own efficiency reserves.
On the other hand, the ongoing cost burden of DSCO is significant relative to the size of the UK RPAS community.
We can estimate that CAA revenues directly from user-payers service charges in the specific category were approx £1M per year (3000 PDRA01 holders x £234 + 100 OSC holders x say top £3000 a year). This is actually (very) modest. Funding an additional £1.7 million in annual operating costs on top of existing labour costs, from a direct user-payer revenue base of just £1 million, is effectively impossible.
An increase of PDRA01 fees from £234 to £500 per year should be manageable for most businesses, though it still represents a doubling of costs for the most common category of operators.
The real pressure lies in SORA applications, particularly if operators need to develop multiple SORA applications, and excess oversight hours are charged at £330/hour.
Lack of Transparency and Communication
Although we have had several exchanges with the CAA on the matter of the Charges, it is disappointing that these significant increases were confirmed without accompanying explanations or detailed rationale. Clear communication about the cost drivers and the fee evolution is essential to maintain trust and encourage compliance across the sector. Transparency is also vital to give operators the visibility they need on how these charges are structured and what additional changes may lie ahead.
The absolute importance of generic location, or multiple sites, SORA applications
This emphasises how vital it is that generic location, or multiple sites SORA applications are accessible and affordable. A single, annual SAIL II Operational Authorisation, now costing £3,495 (a major increase vs current OSC fees) would provide operators with the certainty and stability they need.
To access ORS5 and the Scheme of Charges for RPAS, click HERE.
Link to our previous post with our response to the consultation on the matter HERE. (password protected, Members Only)
SAM IS ....
ECITB Drone Training Course offered by First Scottish College
Forth Valley College (FVC) has launched Scotland’s first ECITB Industrial Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) Operations: Foundation Training Course, marking a significant advancement in industrial drone training. This pioneering five-day program, hosted at FVC’s Falkirk Campus, is designed to enhance drone operation skills for industrial applications, including infrastructure inspections, site surveys, and data capture.
Course Development and Industry Collaboration
The course was developed in collaboration with industry leaders, notably Sellafield Ltd, to establish a new standard for uncrewed aircraft operations in complex engineering and construction environments. Amanda Smith, UAV Equipment Programme Lead at Sellafield, emphasized the course’s value: “Having this new standard means if someone comes to us with this ECITB qualification, I understand the standard of the training they’ve got, which saves time on internal assessments.”
Course Objectives and Structure
The ECITB Foundation UAS training course aims to bridge the gap between basic drone flying and specialized, high-risk industrial applications. It is ideal for experienced drone pilots transitioning to multi-sector operations or companies seeking to upskill employees. The course equips participants with both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise.
Theoretical Modules:
Platform: Understanding drone types and capabilities.
Path: Flight planning and navigation.
People: Safety, crew coordination, and risk management.
Procedures: Operational guidelines and compliance.
Planning: Risk assessment and mission preparation.
Practical Training Includes:
Precise drone control in varying conditions.
Flying near structures safely and effectively.
Capturing high-quality industrial data.
Managing data securely in line with site protocols.
Upon successful completion, participants receive ECITB Certification, an industry-recognized benchmark for pilot competency.
Industry Perspectives
Chris Mann, ECITB’s Director of Learning and Assurance, highlighted the course’s benefits: “The use of drones across industrial settings, particularly for maintenance inspections, offers real benefits to industry, including increased worker safety and efficiency as well as a reduction in asset downtime.”
Zak Stark, FVC’s Head of Commercial Training, emphasized the course’s alignment with industry needs: “As industry demand for drone technology continues to grow, this course ensures that companies have access to an industry benchmark for pilot competency and subsequently highly skilled pilots who can meet stringent operational and safety standards.”
Role of ARPAS-UK and Pravo Consulting
ARPAS-UK has been instrumental in supporting the safe adoption of drones across various sectors. They have collaborated with specialists to deliver Continuing Professional Development (CPD) sessions relevant to multiple industries.
Pravo Consulting, represented by Philip Hicks, has been involved in preparatory discussions for this inaugural education program. Their collaboration with Graham Brown at ARPAS-UK and Jamie Allan and the team in Scotland has been pivotal in shaping the course to meet industry standards and requirements.
Economic Impact of Drone Technology
The integration of drones into industrial operations is projected to have substantial economic benefits. According to PwC’s “Skies Without Limits” report, drones could add £42 billion to the UK GDP by 2030, with 76,000 drones operating in UK skies and a total of 628,000 jobs in the drone-related economy. The report also predicts £3.5 billion in cost savings from drone uptake in the construction and manufacturing sectors.
Future Prospects
The launch of the ECITB Industrial UAS Operations: Foundation Training Course at Forth Valley College sets a precedent for drone training in the UK. It addresses the growing demand for skilled drone operators capable of performing complex tasks in industrial environments. As industries continue to adopt drone technology, such training programs will be crucial in ensuring safety, efficiency, and adherence to regulatory standards.
For more information about the course, interested parties can contact Forth Valley College at training@forthvalley.ac.uk.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Forth Valley College, ECITB, ARPAS-UK, Pravo Consulting, and industry leaders like Sellafield Ltd exemplifies a proactive approach to integrating emerging technologies into industrial practices. This initiative not only enhances the skill set of drone operators but also contributes to the broader goal of modernizing industrial operations through innovative solutions.
The report explores how drones are transforming industries – from asset inspection and precision agriculture to complex oil and gas infrastructures – enhancing efficiency, safety, and sustainability across sectors. We update every 6 months!
OfCom & CAA: Making 978 MHz spectrum available for drones
Ofcom has announced a new initiative to make the 978 MHz spectrum available for drone safety devices in the UK. These devices, known as Universal Access Transceivers (UAT), help aircraft identify drones’ locations, ensuring safer integration into airspace. This change is essential for critical infrastructure tasks, such as inspecting power lines and wind turbines.
The 978 MHz spectrum has been shared since 2016 between aeronautical uses and low-power radio microphones for events. From now on, Ofcom will stop licensing this spectrum for outdoor programme-making and special events (PMSE) use, though indoor use will still be allowed. To compensate, new frequencies are being introduced to expand the available spectrum for PMSE, ensuring minimal interference.
This shift in spectrum usage allows for more efficient drone operations while ensuring PMSE users are provided with alternative frequencies.
OfCom and the CAA issued a joint statement in June 2022, with an update March 2025.
Royal Aeronautical Society RPAAS Conference 23-24 April 2025
In the 2025 RPAAS Conference, experts discuss and explain the obstacles currently hindering progress, exploring practical solutions to overcome them and pave the way for broader integration of drone technology, including:
Location: RAeS HQ, No.4 Hamilton Place, London W1J 7BQ or Virtual
Timing: 8.30am for a 9am start – 5pm
How can we achieve cost-effective RPAAS operations without compromising safety, ensuring these safe and effective RPAAS operations remain economically viable for all stakeholders?
Examine the crucial question of airspace management and service provision and who bears the financial responsibility within the Air Traffic Management (ATM) framework.
Insights into the market outlook, highlighting key issues and barriers and outlining the essential initiatives required to unlock the full potential of drone operations.
Future trends and market outlook: Exploring emerging technologies and market trends shaping the future of RPAAS
How can we assess the potential economic and societal benefits of RPAAS and eVTOL, and what is their transformative impact on various sectors and the broader community?
Malloy Aeronautics is looking to recruit several roles: Senior UAV Performance Modelling Engineer, UAV Pilot, Manufacturing Buyer, Electronics Test Engineer and Battery Technician amongst others.
