GM1 UAS.OPEN.040(1) Operations in Subcategory Far from People A3

CAA ORS9 Decision No. 57

SAFE DISTANCE FROM UNINVOLVED PEOPLE

The safe distance of the UA from uninvolved persons is variable and is heavily dependent on the performance and characteristics of the UAS involved, the weather conditions and the segregation of the overflown area. The RP is ultimately responsible for the determination of this distance.

The RP must be aware of their responsibilities as set out in UAS.OPEN.060 Responsibilities of the remote pilot (2)(d), and in GM1 UAS.OPEN.060(2)(d) Responsibilities of the Remote Pilot, with regard to maintaining control of the UA.

The 1:1 rule:

The ‘1:1 rule’ is a principle which can be used to identify when the minimum separation distance from uninvolved people may need to be increased, and by how much.  It is based on the relationship between the UA’s height and its distance from the uninvolved person (the 1:1 line).

The horizontal separation between the UA and uninvolved people should not be less than the height of the aircraft. The higher the aircraft, the further it will travel should it suffer a catastrophic failure, and therefore the higher the likelihood of it colliding with uninvolved people, and so the separation distance must be increased (or the height reduced). This is so that, in the event of a propulsion failure, the UA is not likely to fall in an area with uninvolved people present.