In a bid to prevent air hazard occasioned by the use of Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS), pilots of the equipment have been advised to obtain competency license and get acquainted with the required training.
Speaking at the 4th Drone Technology Conference and Exhibition, organised by the convener of Nigeria Aviation (NIGAV) at the Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA), Lagos, recently, various speakers from the aviation and technology sectors, said that the technology had come to stay globally, but players in the aviation industry must device a mean to evolve with the technology and tap from its benefits.
The speakers, also canvassed for collaboration among government agencies, especially the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the private sector by amending the existing laws in tandem with the global growth.
Mrs. Collette Onyeulo, from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) in her paper: ‘Building Competency Through Pilot Licensing,’ said that competent licensing was important in a bid to boost safety, identify potential risks, ensure professionalism and enhance quality of operations.
According to her, the primary importance of competent licensed drone pilots lied in ensuring the safety of people, property, and airspace, adding that it was important that licensed drone pilots were knowledgeable about the regulatory requirements governing UAS operations in their jurisdiction.
She maintained that while complying with these regulations, the operators also help to maintain order in the airspace.
She added: “Licensed pilots are also trained to identify and mitigate potential risks associated with drone operations. They understand factors such as weather conditions, airspace restrictions, and operational limitations, enabling them to make informed decisions to minimize risk and ensure mission success.
“Competency in drone piloting reflects professionalism and accountability. Licensed pilots understand the importance of conducting pre-flight checks, adhering to standard operating procedures, and prioritizing safety in all aspects of their operations.
“Competent drone pilots possess the skills and expertise necessary to capture high-quality aerial imagery, collect accurate data, and execute complex missions with precision. Their proficiency contributes to the success of various applications like aerial photography, videography and many more.”
Onyeulo explained that unlicensed drone operator could pose a serious risk to manned aircraft by colliding with planes or helicopters, therefore endangering the lives of passengers and crew.
Such an operator she emphasised could also harm wildlife and disturb natural habitats, while also facing legal consequences.
Besides, Mr. Amin Bakam also of NCAA in his paper: ‘UTM and ATM Operational Implication,’ observed that drone technology had brought disruption to the global technology.
He recalled that when drone technology came into the public glare, the entire aviation industry was apprehensive because of the inherent danger, which led to various legislations and restrictions, especially from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and various global safety and security bodies.
Earlier, Mr. Fortune Idu, the Convener of the event in his opening speech, stated that the drone industry had increased by 40 per cent in Nigeria in the last one year.
Idu explained that drone technology required urgent vertical control and comprehensive data or monitoring methodologies, which he maintained were still in their infancy stage in Nigeria.