Your first drone flight: a UK checklist

Before you leave the house

Flyer ID passed (needed at 100g+) and Operator ID registered and labelled on the drone (needed at 100g+ with camera). Batteries charged — aircraft, controller and phone. Firmware updated at home, never at the field. Wind forecast checked against your drone's rating (gusts, not averages — and remember it's windier at 50m than at head height).

Choosing the site

Wide open space, away from people, buildings, trees and roads. Not in an airport Flight Restriction Zone, and clear of local bylaw restrictions — check our locations map before you set off. Permission from the landowner to take off and land.

The first ten minutes

Take off into the wind, climb to about 20m, and just hover — watch how the drone holds position. Fly a gentle square, keeping the drone in front of you and in direct sight. Practise bringing it back and landing three or four times before you try anything else. Keep the first battery boring; the cinematic shots can wait for battery two.

The rules that catch beginners

Max 120m (400ft) above ground. Direct sight at all times — not through the camera feed. Never over crowds, regardless of drone weight. Green flashing light if flying at night. And respect privacy: cameras and back gardens are a fast way to make drone pilots unpopular.