Taking an aerial photo may look a simple task, but this photo took a fair amount of planning.

Firstly, a pre-site survey needs to be done to assess the site itself – are there any structures, like boats or buildings that need to be factored in. Any metal objects which could interfere with the compass on the drone, overhead wires, and the place where the drone is to be launched from.

A risk assessment is then prepared, which covers any potential issues with the planned flight. Examples are weather on the day, low flying birds, potential uninvolved persons there (those not involved in the drone operation) and any potential low flying aircraft. Assessing the risks and how these can be mitigated.

For this photo, permission was needed from Guernsey Harbour. They need to review and approve the above risk assessment and a flight plan.

When all the above is complete – the flight can take place, subject to all the conditions on the risk assessment being met when on site. Human factors also play a big part, so if anything does not feel right on the day, I generally postpone the flight for another time.