Our Process
From Planning to Delivery
At AirVantage Drones, we’re all about using drone technology to help our clients achieve their project goals safely and efficiently. We understand that not everyone is familiar with what drones can do, so we’re always happy to explain our capabilities and answer any questions.
Once we understand your requirements, we’ll carry out initial research on the site location and provide a tailored quote. For more complex projects, we may need to visit the site to define the scope accurately. We appreciate that some sites require a safety or contractor induction before access is approved, and we’re happy to complete this where needed. If you decide to proceed, we’ll design a plan to deliver your project safely and efficiently.
Before any flight takes place, we’ll confirm whether your site lies within a Flight Restriction Zone or other regulated airspace. If required, we’ll obtain the necessary clearances from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) or relevant stakeholders. Please note that approvals for restricted areas can take up to a month to secure, although in many cases we can shorten this timeframe.
When it’s time for the flight, our pilot will complete a full on-site risk assessment and method statement before taking off. If access to the site has been pre-arranged, you don’t need to be present, but you’re very welcome to observe. We can also provide a live on-site monitor or live-stream the flight to your device if connectivity allows.
We operate in full compliance with all applicable CAA and local authority regulations. Our pilot may only launch from a safe and authorised location. Once airborne, the drone is subject to the relevant CAA regulations, much like other types of aircraft. Where necessary, third-party consent may be obtained to enable a suitable take-off area, and we’ll work with you to arrange this where needed.
After capturing the required images, video, or data, we process everything through our secure software workflow before packaging and delivering the final product to you.
AirVantage Drones Workflow Model
Product Delivery
We typically deliver your products through a secure online downloadable file. However, if you prefer to have the raw data directly from the drone memory card, just let us know before the flight. We will install a fresh memory card with a USB adapter for you to purchase and keep.
Your Assurance
Achieving your requirement safely and lawfully is the only way we operate. We are fully CAA professionally qualified and authorised to operate commercially in the UK. Please note there are many Drone Restriction Zones around the UK where it may be unlawful to fly drones without an exemption in place. Our workflow includes obtaining the relevant clearances as part of our planning process.
All commercial operators must be insured to provide drone services. In the very unlikely event of a drone related incident, we are covered with a £5m Public/Third Party Liability Insurance. Our insurance provided is flexible and cover can be upgraded if required.
Weather
The weather is a very important factor when flying drones. Very strong winds will make it unsafe to fly. Some of our drones can fly in rain, however it is usually ineffective as rain adversely affects the image quality. Intense solar activity can affect the accuracy of mapping and aerial survey. Unless the weather forecast is clearly unworkable, we will always attend and fly in an opportune weather window if possible.
For further information on our process and related fees, see our Fees page here and our Terms of Service page here.
