Partner Article

Drones Direct Launches Commercial Training Programme

LEADING DRONE and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) retailer, DronesDirect.co.uk, has launched a drone training course for businesses within the construction industry wishing to operate drones for commercial use.

The three-day course gives drone pilots full Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Permission for Commercial Operations (PfCO) accreditation, which will allow construction workers who take the course, to fly drones on site.

Being able to operate a drone at work can have numerous benefits for those in the surveying and construction trade, who can use them to measure stockpiles, collect aerial photographs, and to assist them with inspections.

The specially designed course will guide participants through practical applications of drones for commercial use, including still photography, elaborate topographical surveys, 3D point cloud scanning, orthomosaics, utility inspections and thermal imaging.

Run by an ex-military and commercial drone pilot with expert knowledge, the course allows ample time for construction employees to pass their practical assessment, and to compile their operations manual records ready for submission to the CAA.

It also provides detailed training in air law and regulations, meteorology and weather operation, navigation and air space, map exercises, aircraft knowledge, airmanship and safety, human factors and operating procedure, which will equip construction workers with the knowledge to use their equipment safely and confidently in their work setting.

The Yorkshire-based course includes two nights’ accommodation and also offers a no-resit fee deal, which means those who require more air time aren’t penalised. The course costs £1100+ VAT, and includes access to a Drone Academy Members Club.

Tim Morley, business unit manager at DronesDirect.co.uk said, “As with the recreational use of drones, the commercial use of drones and unmanned aerial vehicles, in particular within the construction industry, has become more commonplace. For safety and legal reasons, it is vital that employees using drones on site are qualified and their use is considered and responsible.

“Compliance with the CAA rules and holding PfCO accreditation is written into UK law and therefore anyone wishing to incorporate a drone and its technologies into their workings on site are required to hold this accreditation. For us at DronesDirect.co.uk, as an advocate of safe drone usage, providing a course for use in construction projects was a no-brainer and this is an extension of our commitment to the responsible us of drones.”

The largest UK drones retailer operates a ‘try before you buy’ service on the latest drones within its dedicated in-store Drone Zone.

DronesDirect.co.uk has previously pledged its commitment to helping ensure safe and responsible drone usage via its Customer Charter, and has called on other major retailers to follow its lead.

For more information on DronesDirect.co.uk and their range of products, visit www.DronesDirect.co.uk.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Gemma Eccleston .