Forget dreadful drones, I set a model example
THE failure of the authorities to deal with the apparent incursions at Gatwick has created a lot of debate concerning the misuse of drones. I would like to make it clear that drones are not the same as conventional model aircraft. Radio-controlled models have been flown responsibly for decades with few, if any, concerns. I have been a model flyer for more than 40 years, and enthusiasts such as me have been largely left alone by the Civil Aviation Authority. Some years ago, it even relaxed the weight limits, with no reports of adverse results. The problems have only materialised since the introduction of drones, more correctly known as quadcopter or multi-rotor machines. Flying a conventional model aircraft or helicopter requires skills comparable to those of a pilot. It can take months of tuition by a qualified instructor, often using dual controls. This tuition takes place only at suitable flying sites and is governed by the British Model Flying Association. The courses include instruction on the legal restrictions and safety requirements, all of which are covered by the association’s safety code. By contrast, a drone is a fully autonomous machine that can be bought and flown with no tuition whatsoever. Without the need for taking a training course, a drone operator may well be unaware of the legal and safety aspects. A model aircraft does not have inbuilt stabilisation — the control relies on the skill of the remote pilot. By contrast, a drone operator uses a radio control transmitter, tablet or even a smartphone to tell the drone what they want it to do. The drone is fitted with an on-board computer that calculates the control inputs and sensors that provide feedback and stabilisation. Little, if any, skill is required. Please do not allow the stupidity of a few rogue drone operators to curtail the activities of innocent model flyers. We are already under pressure due to model flying sites being lost to redevelopment — two sites near me are under threat due to the creation of football academies. Bad publicity due to the recent drone incidents at Gatwick is the last thing we need.
BOB HOWARD, Southall, Middlesex.