Factsheet 2: Platform Weights

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UAV technology has boomed in recent years and as such the UK CAA has had to draw up legislation for all UAVs in order to guard against dangerous use. In addition to the overall laws, there are particular ones depending on the specification of an individual UAV. One of these laws relates to the weight of the UAV (aka the platform).

Why does weight make a difference?

Essentially the weight of the equipment has a bearing on safety. A heavier piece of equipment could potentially be more hazardous should it malfunction or if there were an operator error. The CAA has therefore created two different weight categories covering the majority of UAV use. These are essentially:

< 7kg and 7 – 20kg

 20kg is generally a maximum limit since UAVs heavier than 20kg are subject to the same regulations as manned aircraft.

The weight category of the UAV will determine where it is allowed to fly

	Restrictions	Type of UAV
SkyJib XM6	Has no restrictions on operating in controlled airspace   Can operate within 50m of congested areas	Small, agile platforms
7 – 20 kg
SkyJib 8	Requires a NSFR to operate in controlled airspace Can operate within 150m of congested areas	Large, stable platforms Heavy lift capability for high resolution or complex sensors

 How does this apply to the UAVs operated by Remote Aerial Surveys?