UK Drone Laws: How to legally fly DJI Mini 3 Pro
DECEMBER 25, 2022
Got a drone for Christmas - What Now?
Hi there!
Christmas morning comes and goes and up and down the country people will be unwrapping an exciting new drone. Based on availability on common retail sites, probability is high it'll be a DJI Mini 2 (Amazon.co.uk) or a DJI Mini 3 Pro (Amazon.co.uk). I also know that my partner's family have bought their dad a DJI Mini for Christmas so I know there will be at least one person wanting to know what they can do with their new drone this Christmas!
It is super important for drone owners to be aware of, and comply with, laws and general safety "rules" relating to drones. Why? Because they're an aircraft and machine capable of causing injury to passers by and the owner themselves.
Fortunately, the DJI Mini 3 Pro and its predecessor the DJI Mini 2 have simple laws to follow due to them weighing less than 250g. Now it is worth saying I'm no lawyer however I am a responsible drone operator and pilot using drones commercially (and I do in fact have a law degree!).
Drone operators and pilots need to follow the Drone Code and all other guidance, policies and laws laid down by the UK Civil Aviation Authority. You can read the full Drone Code here but I will break it down into the necessary information for the DJI Mini 3 Pro and Mini 2 so read on.
Essential Laws for DJI Mini 3 Pro and Mini 2 owners
1) Register for an Operator ID and affix this to the drone (pen / sticker). If you own or are responsible for a drone, you MUST do this. You can register for a drone operator ID on the UK Civil Aviation Authority website here. (You do not need a flyer ID, if you are not flying commercially, because the DJI Mini drone falls in the sub-250g)
2) ALWAYS fly within direct visual line of sight. You must be able to see the drone. Depending on the weather conditions, the distance away from you may vary. This rule is important because you don't want to fly into anything and the DJI Mini 3 Pro does not have 360 degree cameras and sensors do not work in some flying modes.
3) Fly below 120m or 400ft. You may be surprised just how high 50, 80 or 100m is. Don't fly higher than you feel comfortable and be aware that weather conditions (wind, moisture etc) can be different the higher you fly. There may also be restrictions on flying above certain heights in different localities but the DJI Fly app will likely inform you of this.
4) You MAY fly over people uninvolved in your flight BUT keeping to the 50m distance rule is both considerate and usually safest. The DJI Mini 3 Pro and Mini 2 are legally allowed to fly over uninvolved people due to being sub-250g but it is definitely worth mastering flight before you even consider this and being aware of changing weather conditions.
5) You MAY fly in residential, recreational, commercial and industrial areas due to the exemptions granted to sub-250g drones. BUT it is advisable to avoid these areas whilst you are still mastering how to fly a drone and even once confident you must be aware you are legally responsible for the flight of your drone.
6) You MUST NOT fly near airports and other airfields. These places have flight restriction zones surrounding them of generally a 5km radius. You can find flight restriction zones on the DroneSafetyMap.com or by downloading the Drone Assist UK app (Android / Apple) Don't try to circumvent restrictions around airports; it is dangerous, illegal and can land you in the newspapers.
7) Just like driving, you MUST NOT fly whilst under the influence of drink or drugs. If you've had some Christmas booze, leave it until Boxing Day!
So, that's the basics of UK law for DJI Mini 3 Pro and Mini 2 drones.
Take your time getting to know the controls of your drone. Read the UK Drone Code in depth so you understand the risks. Stay away from people, animals and "things" particularly whilst getting to grips with your drone. Most of all, have fun! I would love to see your images and videos from your flights so reach out on social media or by email ([email protected])
Disclaimer: No responsibility is held for any content found on external websites. All links have been provided for information purposes and affiliate links to amazon products may result in a payment to me on qualifying purchases you make. All links are provided in good faith for the purposes of enriching your experiene of this site.