Drone rules make the perfect Christmas stocking filler

If Santa leaves a drone under the tree, families are urged to learn the safety rules together before the first flight by taking the new drone safety quiz.

CASA Chief Executive Officer and Director of Aviation Safety, Pip Spence, says learning the rules keeps everyone safe.

'While the battery charges, take a few minutes to learn the drone safety rules together,' Pip says.

'Visit knowyourdrone.gov.au to watch the short video, then test your knowledge with our drone safety quiz.

'Even experienced flyers often miss some of the key drone safety rules with the average drone flyer getting 8 out of 11 safety rules correct.

'Once you've taken a few minutes to watch the video, you'll see the rules are simple but important. If you follow the rules, you'll know how to fly safely and where you can fly.'

CASA also encourages new flyers to download a free CASA-verified drone safety app.

These apps show you in real time where you can and can't fly. They also alert you to nearby temporary no-fly zones, due to major events or aerial displays.

Some places are always off limits, including near bushfires and emergencies, or close to airports.

If you plan to buy a drone in the post-Christmas sales, follow Santa's lead and shop with a CASA-recognised drone safety advocate retailer.

There are more than 50 retailers who have signed up and you can view a full list of them on CASA's Know Your Drone website.

Nicholas from Ted's Cameras, just one of the many drone safety advocates, says education should start before purchase.

'At Ted's Cameras, we display the rules near our drones, so customers understand what flying a drone involves before they buy,' Nicholas says.

Look out for the drone safety advocate symbol online or instore. These retailers have committed to provide clear safety information with every drone.

Learn the rules, take the quiz and find trusted retailers at knowyourdrone.gov.au.

Download video and audio files of the following:

• CASA spokesperson Larissa Kaye, Ted’s Camera spokesperson Nicholas and general overlay footage
• Audio Larissa
• Audio Nicholas.