UK Drone users face 'Theory test' under new Gov't proposals
The new drone rules are part of a document drawn up by the government entitled, 'Unlocking the UK's High Tech Economy: Consultation on the Safe Use of Drones in the UK.' While there are already strict rules for drone users, the unmanned aerial vehicles — also known as UAVs — which can operate under remote control or autonomously by on-board computers, have become increasingly widespread and are cheaply available in high street shops and online.
The government is also interested in electronic tagging; however the technology for this is not yet available. As a result government officials are considering an app that pilots would need to use before each flight.
Other proposals include testing facilities, which will allow the owner to fly their drone in a quiet rural area. Although none of these ideas have been finalized as of yet, the government has recognized that there are problems with drone ownership in the UK and have put forward these proposals and ways in which to mitigate the risks.