UAV information from Strathclyde Police
Email from Strathclyde Police. At that height, it is no problem.
Further to my last email to you, I've spoken with the relevant officers
and they have given me the following information for you:
The aircraft pictured was the initial test unit provided to the Force.
The aircraft to be flown operationally will be liveried in standard
yellow and black and will operate between 50 and 150 feet above ground
level within line of sight of the operator. The purpose of this pilot is
to ascertain if the equipment is suitable for use by the Force and if
there is a use for this type of technology. It has been found that it
flys well in rain and wind and is particularly useful in low cloud
conditions where traditional Air Support cannot fly sufficiently low.
A full Risk Assessment has been completed for use of the equipment and
complies with CAA guidelines with whom we maintain close liaison. Each
use of the equipment is further Risk Assessed by the operators, who were
provided training in that area as well as extensive training in use of
the equipment, and standard operating guidelines require that it be
landed if any other aircraft enter the area. Additionally, it will be
operated in consultation with the Strathclyde Police Air Support Unit to
ensure that flight notifications are provided to appropriate
authorities.
We appreciate your interest in this type of technology and also your
concerns. I assure you that safety in the use of this equipment is of
paramount importance and any safety issues identified will result in its
grounding. At this time it is not anticipated that this type of
technology will replace traditional Air Support but may compliment it.
I hope this helps address your concerns.
Regards
The Web Team
Strathclyde Police