LMA Aviation Committee welcomes new legislation for drones

The Lloyd’s Market Association (LMA) Aviation Committee has welcomed government proposals for drone legislation, which was set out in a statement on 26 November by the Aviation Minister, Baroness Sugg. The proposed legislation, due to be published in spring 2018, will place new responsibilities on owners of drones weighing more that 250g, such as mandatory registration of the individual and the requirement to take a safety awareness test.

In March this year, the LMA Aviation Committee submitted a detailed response to the Department for Transport’s (DfT) ‘Consultation on the Safe Use of Drones in the UK’. The Committee suggested that the introduction of primary legislation is necessary to align the regulation of drone operation with those of manned aircraft. 

The proposed legislation could involve drones being banned from flying near airports, or above 400ft, in an effort to reduce unsafe flying. Police will also be given authority to seize and ground drones which may have been used in criminal activity.

Paul Maguire, Chair of the LMA Aviation Committee and Head of Aviation at Faraday Underwriting Limited, said: “The implementation of drone-specific legislation is aimed at ensuring common safety standards, thus reducing the risks associated with drones.  Regulatory enhancements that trend towards improved safety standards in this market are welcomed by insurers.  The LMA Aviation Committee is pleased to see the UK again leading the way with respect to the safe integration of drones into existing airspace and we look forward to working with other aviation authorities and regulators to help align international standards.”  

- ENDS -

Notes to Editors

For further information please contact:
James Milne, Head of Communications
Lloyd’s Market Association
T 0207 327 8405
E james.milne@lmalloyds.com

About the Lloyd’s Market Association (LMA)

Formed in 2001 and located in the heart of the Lloyd’s Building in the City of London, the Lloyd's Market Association represents the interests of the Lloyd’s underwriting community. All underwriting businesses at Lloyd’s are members, together managing gross premium income of around £30billion per annum. 

For more information visit: www.lmalloyds.com.