Being a member of the model aircraft flying club, I've been sent this rather concerning news that our dear (beloved) government appear to have found something they MUST do - and that is to limit model aircraft flyers operations, with draconian possibly non reversible control.
Following on from the rediculous chaos resulting from ONE illegal (CRIMINAL) airport drone activity that closed airports down, the government has decided to HIT the good guys, citing the bad guys. (MY WORDS ONLY)
Should a 10 mph speed limit be imposed in urban areas because of yobs / criminals driving at 80mph through the streets?
I am mindful that this forum should remain a politically free zone, BUT--- what we perhaps see here is similar to Dept of Transports handling of our beleaguered pastime.
IMHO- THIS is a jerk reaction (pun intended) to cover over the obvious failings of the airport security in sitting around until they are caught off guard by such "fairly obvious" anti social astonishingly dangerous acts. Reports of drones flying next to the wings of landing passenger jets (about 150MPH???) are stupid (to say the least)
Droners (and subsequently perhaps Hovercrafters) are likely and obvious targets for "authorities" to flex their muscles,
as all major parties seem (at the moment) to fail in all other matters.
Clearly, IF/When this stuff becomes law it will affect drone coverage of our sport, if not also hover crafting.
The CAA already does legally control drone flying airport activity. MY drone (DJI) cannot be flown operated or flown to endanger planes. It is programmed by DJI manufacturers, so my onboard telemetry can be used AGAINST me --- and I am DELIGHTED it does, and can.
We will see.
UK Model Flyers - Call to action