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How much does a commercial drone cost?

EDINBURGH DRONE COMPANY – How much does a commercial drone cost(UK)?

 

As drone enthusiasts, we thought we would share some knowledge we have picked up along the way. This will allow drone users in the UK to make an informed decision before purchasing a drone. This guide is for commercial drone users and business owners.

Initial Drone Cost’s

DJI Drone Range:

Autel Drones:

Possible Drone Extra’s

  • Battery’s
  • Tablets and mobile’s
  • Propellers
  • Fast chargers
  • Propeller guards
  • SD Cards
  • ND Filters
  • Carry bags

Legal Requirement (UK) – Operating legally

Even if you are not flying commercially, you have 2 things you must do to fly legally within the UK

There are two requirements and you may need to meet both:

  • if you’ll fly, you must pass a theory test to get a flyer ID
  • if you’re responsible for a drone or model aircraft, you must register for an operator ID

The operator of the drone must also apply the operate ID number to the aircraft.

Costs

£9 total

More details – here

Drones under 250g. For drones Over 250g, then we suggest you look at A2 C of C or if larger again then a GVC and beyond.

Best drone apps for UK drone use

We recommend downloading the free app – Drone Assist by altitude angel and use before every flight. This will show your live position and anything to know with the area you wish to fly. This map is the most up to date map and resource we know and use it before any flights.

Drone Flight – Check List

  1. Area – Can you operate in the area you wish?
  2. Take off and landing site – Legal? ( For 1 and 2 – Download free Drone Assist by altitude angel and use before every flight)
  3. Weather – Various apps and consider using a wind cage in a high open area ( true wind reading).
  4. Insurance Check – Are you operating commercially or do you just want 3rd party insurance for peace of mind?
  5. Equipment check and calibrate if require – (Please take propeller health serious and ANY visible damage needs replaced including bits missing)!
  6. Home point and GPS check – Advised 10 or above satellite’s linked for good GPS support.
  7. Happy flying

Running Costs

It is a hobby and should be treated like this. If you fly a lot then you will have travel to consider but all and all, we consider it to be a fairly cheap hobby to get into. For example, DJI Mini 2 – £419 + CAA registration ( £9) and you have access to arguably the best drone ever sub 250g.

The electricity required to charge each item is small, however, be aware both drone and charger need charged regularly.

Propellers need changed so allow for this like tyres on a car but change them more often!!

Drone Software

We recommend downloading the free app – Drone Assist by altitude angel and use before every flight.

Branded flight software come with your purchases. For example, Autel drones come with ‘Autel explorer’ and DJI come with various ‘Go’ apps.

Most not commercial users will be happy with the above mention branded drone apps. We will do various pages for commercial pilots who want to know more about 3rd party software that can raise your offering.

Computer & Software

To edit 4k videos and photos, you must be running a fairly modern computer. Under 16GB of RAM and a decent graphics card will struggle. Serious computers for editing can be £2,500.

Drone Insurance

We recommend 3rd party drone insurance even if you are not operating commercial. What happens if you do something wrong and get legal action taken against you? Know the law and operate safely and legally.

Expected Future Value – Drone

Our expected future value list is based on research and knowledge of the drone sales market and is based only on DJI products. Please see our results below:

2nd hand value of DJI

Photography & Video

Drone Design and customisation

Drone Sales

Drone Repairs

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