Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ

Airfields - Small

A guide to recording activities and travel from small airfields, as opposed to a commercial airport, which are generally used by private pilots to fly non-scheduled small single/twin engine aircrafts, microlights and gliders.

Updated: 19 March 2024

What Can Go Wrong?

  • The aircraft could be involved in an accident due to a variety of causes (eg. bad weather, electrical or mechanical failure, flight crew/pilot error).
  • Someone could get struck by parts of the aircraft or an aircraft itself .
  • Damage to aircraft or airfield equipment.
  • Exposed to adverse weather effects in an open area.
  • Possible exposure to high noise levels.

Legal/Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Requirements

  • When travelling on a non-scheduled flight especially where there is a payment or value consideration of any form, such flights could be considered as Public Transport. Check with Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Safety if there is any doubt.
  • Normally you need to request to see the following documents:
  • Air Operator Certificate or an equivalent document that authorises Public Transport. 
  • Air Worthiness CertificatePilot’s commercial licence, ideally with 1500 hrs or more, flying experience. 
  • Public & Passenger Liability Insurance including an Insurance Schedule and do check on the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Insurance website for the specific requirements on the type and level of cover needed.
  • Depending on the country, it may be prudent to ask for evidence of additional documents from the operator, check with Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Safety.
  • If overseas check that you are not planning to use an airline on the EU Banned Airlines list. See myRisks page on Banned Airlines for more information. 

Control Measures

Airfield

  • Before going to any airfield (private, civil or military) permission must be obtained from the appropriate controlling body. The only exceptions are the spectators enclosure when visiting a civil airport, or on an open day at a military airfield.
  • Discuss editorial and technical requirements with a representative from the airfield.
  • Always try to get a representative from the airfield to supervise your filming.
  • If you are not escorted obtain a layout of the airfield with special reference to runways in use, taxiing areas and safe areas for spectators.
  • Stay within designated areas and away from moving aircraft.
  • Only approach take-off and landing positions when authorised to do so by Pilot or ground crew.
  • Adhere to all airside warning notices and where possible obtain a radio which enables you keep a listening watch on the airfield frequency.
  • If you have to get to the other side of the airfield, unless you are under control by radio from the tower, use the perimeter track of the airfield. Vehicles keep to the left.
  • Don’t walk towards an aircraft which is occupied unless you can position yourself so you are visible to the pilot.
  • Keep away from propellers, rotors and engine air intake, even when seemingly switched off. A propeller which is turning will appear invisible.
  • Don’t touch any external aircraft control surfaces, as fingers can get trapped if control surfaces suddenly move due to pilot input and or effect of wind.
  • Limit the equipment that is taken airside and make sure it’s secure and can’t get blown away by the wind.
  • If any glider operation take place at an airfield, make sure you know where the cable / two rope dropping areas is.
  • Wear sensible clothing and footwear and if possible high visibility jackets. Airfields are open areas and weather effects can feel extreme.
  • Have earplugs available and use them if working near aircrafts with engines running.
  • Be observant and exercise caution at all times.

Flight

  • When using fixed wing aircrafts, microlights, gliders, hang gliders and paragliders the pilots will typically be classed as private pilots belonging to a club and/or be a flight training organisation. Strict rules dictate what activities a private pilot and flight training organisation can undertake. Advice should always be obtained from Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Safety and Insurance to ensure that the conduct of the flight will be considered legal.
  • Liaise with the Air Operator in the days running up to filming with regard to expected weather conditions.
  • If flying over water check this is allowed in that particular aircraft and ensure required safety equipment such as life jackets and life rafts are available.
  • Ensure all crew/contributors receive a safety briefing prior to the flight including emergency procedures (when and how to exit aircraft as well; how to quickly get out of any harness/restraints).
  • Equipment should only be placed on the outside the aircraft if this has been specifically agreed with the pilot.
  • Don’t distract the pilot; including when they are undertaking checks, are on the radio or taxiing. 

Division Specific Issues

  • No division specific issues.

FAQs/Did You Know?

  • An aircraft in difficulty may land unannounced at an airfield and there will be no noise to warn you if the engine has failed.
  • Airfield is the term used to describe an area or land used for take-off and landing, it’s an aerodrome where it includes buildings and other installation and it becomes an airport where there is scheduled air traffic.
  • Aircraft structures can be easily damaged whilst on the ground. Never push, handle, sit on or in, or lay objects of any kind on an aircraft without the pilot's permission.

Flying topics

More from SSR

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  • Safety Equipment Stores

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  • Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Safety Guidelines

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  • Safety Advice Line: 0370 411 0464 Email: safety@bbc.co.uk

About this site

This site describes what the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ does in relation to managing its health, safety and security risks and is intended for those who work directly for the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ.

It is not intended to provide instruction or guidance on how third parties should manage their risks. The Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ cannot be held liable for how this information is interpreted or used by third parties, nor provide any assurance that adopting it would provide any measure of legal compliance. More information

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