Since December 2019, thousands of recreational drone flyers in Australia have been put to the test through CASA’s Know Your Drone initiative. The results have revealed that the average drone user, who flies for sport or recreation, only managed to answer 8 out of 11 safety rules correctly. This outcome highlights the crucial need for all drone flyers, regardless of their experience level, to familiarize themselves with the drone safety rules.
According to CASA’s 2022-23 Annual Report, it is estimated that there are currently 1.8 million Australians involved in flying drones for sport and recreation. With the increasing popularity of drones, millions of more people are expected to purchase or receive their first drone within the next year.
To ensure that customers have access to essential information about drone safety rules, leading Australian retailer JB Hi-Fi has joined a nationwide network of CASA-recognized drone safety advocates. Every drone sold by JB Hi-Fi, whether online or in-store, comes equipped with CASA safety information that educates buyers on how to use their drones safely.
We recognize the importance of our customers obtaining the correct information on sharing the air, which is why JB Hi-Fi supports the Know Your Drone campaign, mentioned a spokesperson from JB Hi-Fi. The retailer prominently displays the yellow and black drone safety advocate symbol in their stores and on their website, and they also include safety information in each drone package to aid customers in becoming responsible drone owners.
This collaborative effort between CASA and retailers like JB Hi-Fi aims to ensure that drone enthusiasts across the nation can enjoy their hobby responsibly, thereby contributing to a safer and more enjoyable airspace for everyone.
Sharon Marshall-Keeffe, the acting manager of remotely piloted aircraft systems operations at CASA, urges all recreational drone flyers to participate in the Know Your Drone challenge. We encourage all drone operators, regardless of their flying experience, to familiarize themselves with the drone safety rules before taking to the skies this Christmas, she emphasized. Sharon reiterates the importance of drone operators comprehending these safety rules to ensure the well-being of themselves and others.
In addition to taking the Know Your Drone quiz, CASA also advises drone flyers to consult a CASA-verified drone safety app before flying to ensure they are operating in a safe area. Through this comprehensive approach, CASA aims to ensure that newcomers and even those with more experience fully grasp the safety rules and responsibilities associated with being a responsible drone flyer.
The national Know Your Drone campaign was launched on Sunday and can be seen on various social media channels, digital videos, digital displays, and participating retail outlets throughout Australia.
CASA’s primary role is to regulate Australian aviation safety, including safe and legal drone operations within Australian airspace.
To access the campaign video or take the quiz, visit the official Know Your Drone website at knowyourdrone.gov.au.
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