Has anyone got a leaflet or similar that can be handed to members of the public regarding flying in unrestricted airspace, quoting a few CAA Regs etc.
I have been tugged for taking photos in public. I am sure you are aware that there is a negativity to drones and I dont want to get into a slagging comp.
cheers RoyP
Personally I wouldnât have leaflets or whatever to hand out, I would simply clearly state that I am a licensed pilot operating within CAA rules and that I will not engage further as I am operating an unmanned aircraft system and any ongoing distraction would be a contravention on their part of the âendangering an aircraftâ stipulation from the air navigation order.
If they believe they are in the right they can summon the relevant authorities, in which case I would safely land my aircraft and supply relevant documentation to prove that I am flying within the law.
The more we submit to these people, the more emboldened they become.
I agree with your approach. However, article 240 of the ANO does not apply to drones. Article 23 specifically excludes unmanned aircraft from the defintion of âaircraftâ, as follows:
23.â(1) This article applies toâ
(a) any small balloon;
(b) any kite weighing not more than 2kg;
(c) any unmanned aircraft other than an unmanned aircraft subject to certification;
(d) any parachute including a parascending parachute.
(2) Subject to paragraphs (3) and (4), nothing in this Order applies to or in relation to an aircraft to which this article applies.
Thanks @SimonDale, I had forgotten about the exclusion under article 23, and itâs a great callout to avoid going into such interactions on a shaky factual foundation.
In light of that I would still approach this the in the same fashion ,but would just say more generally that âI cannot be distractedâ.
Agreed. 
@RoyP I donât carry leaflets myself, but I do keep a copy of the relevant CAA guidance on my phone and Iâm happy to show my Flyer ID, Operator ID and insurance if asked.
In my experience, a friendly conversation goes much further than quoting regulations. Most people are simply curious or concerned because of the negative publicity drones sometimes receive. Explaining what youâre doing, showing them the droneâs camera view if appropriate, and reassuring them youâre operating legally can quickly defuse the situation.
That said, a simple FPV UK or CAA-produced information card covering the basics of legal drone flying in unrestricted airspace would be a great idea and could help educate the public without turning the interaction into an argument.
Absolutly 100%.
Mind you, I would not be as eloquent as you.
I must add that I have never actually had to use that, ever.
But I keep it with me always as you never know.
(I updated the dates too - sorry!) 
