How did the IAA go about developing its UAV regulations?
The IAA started reviewing the regulation of Small Unmanned Aircraft (SUA) in 2010, in response to the increasing SUA activity. A number of amendments to the existing legislation were published and a new regulation was published in 2015 (S.I. 563 of 2015). When developing the new regulation, IAA took account of developing SUA legislation worldwide, the work on-going in JARUS (Joint Authorities for Rulemaking on Unmanned Systems) and the framework for future SUA regulation published by EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency). Further details on IAA SUA regulation can be found here: https://www.iaa.ie/general-aviation/ drones/drone-regulations-guidance
What is the current level of activity in the area? How much do you expect it to grow?
There has been significant growth in the use of SUA in Ireland in recent years, reflecting the worldwide trend. The IAA expects this trend to continue. There are currently over 5,000 SUA registered with the IAA, which includes both drones and model aircraft.
How many specific permissions have you given for UAVs? How long does it normally take for the processing of an application to take place?
A Special Operating Permission (SOP) allows users to operate their drones beyond the limits that are defined in legislation
in certain circumstances and subject to certain conditions. The length of time it takes to process an application varies according to the quality and compliance of the application. There are approximately 120 SOPs currently valid.
Which commercial areas of activity do you see as being among the most important in future? (eg agriculture, aerial photography, filming...)
At the moment, drones are being used in Ireland for a variety of purposes including recreation, aerial photography/video and aerial survey. The IAA expects that as the industry develops, SUA will be utilised across many more areas.
Could you give a brief outline of the major features of your regulations?
The IAA uses a risk-based approach to the safety regulation of drones. A Special Operating Permission (SOP) allows users to operate their drones beyond the limits that are defined in legislation in certain
circumstances and subject to certain conditions. Each application for an SOP is assessed on its merits and with a view to ensuring safety. The IAA has engaged with those who have operated drones unsafely and come to our attention, with each case dealt with on an individual basis and evaluated for its potential impact on safety. Any unauthorised use of SUA may be referred to An Garda Siochana (the Irish Police) for investigation.
Do you expect to update your rules after European rules are introduced through the EU and EASA?
The European Union is leading the development of regulatory standards to cover the use of SUA across the whole of the EU and Ireland is actively participating on the EASA working group. Normally, whenever a new EU rule is introduced, it automatically becomes law in Ireland.
How and when do you expect to see Beyond Visual Line of Sight flying to develop? (Is
it allowed or catered for in your current regulations?)
Some operators have already tentatively indicated an interest in pursuing Beyond Visual Line of Sight operations. Each case will be accessed and an SOP issued if the IAA is satisfied that such operations can be undertaken safely.
To what extent are you liaising with the police and other security forces? Is enforcement something that the IAA is primarily responsible for – or will it be shared with the police and other bodies?
The IAA is actively discussing aspects of SUA use with other State agencies, including An Garda Siochana and the Data Protection Commissioner.
The IAA has engaged with those who have operated drones unsafely and come
to our attention, with each case dealt
with on an individual basis and evaluated for its potential impact on safety. Any unauthorised use of SUA may be referred to An Garda Siochana for investigation.
How will you address the issue of trying to keep the regulations abreast of the fast-developing technology in this area?
The IAA closely monitors developments within the SUA industry and maintains a dedicated staff with responsibility for the area. The IAA actively participates on international fora, such JARUS (CONOPS, Ops and Licensing working groups), EASA and the EU.
How much contact do you expect to have with the Unmanned Aircraft Association of Ireland and other manufacturers and operators?
The IAA is in regular contact with the UAAI and SUA manufactures. The IAA also actively participates at various SUA related events and trades shows, such as Drone Expo and MojoCon.
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