Course trains users to fly drones for commercial purposes

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.

The course launches in the same week that Devon and Cornwall Police have started recruiting a 'drone manager' to lead a team fighting crime with flying devices.

Run by an ex-military and commercial drone pilot with expert knowledge, the course allows ample time for droners 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 operators with the knowledge to use their equipment safely and confidently in commercial settings.

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 £1,100+ 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 has become more commonplace, and it is vital that those using them for business reasons 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 and service offering are require to hold this accreditation. For us at DronesDirect.co.uk, as an advocate of safe drone usage, providing a course for commercial use 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.