Professional Drone Photography in Restricted Airspace: Filming Harland & Wolff
As a licensed UAV pilot in Northern Ireland, I recently had the opportunity to put my professional credentials to work for an extraordinary commission. My friends at Harland & Wolff requested aerial photography and video of the shipyard during a historic weekend—it was the first time in 82 years the yard had been that full.
Capturing the scale of this maritime activity required more than just a drone; it required a deep understanding of aviation law and local safety protocols.
Navigating Restricted Airspace (BHD) Because Harland & Wolff is a direct neighbour to George Best Belfast City Airport, it lies within strictly controlled airspace. Unauthorised drone flights here are a serious offense. To gain access, a pilot must hold a valid UAV license and apply for a Non-Standard Flight (NSF) through the NATS portal.
Harland & Wolff Shipyard, Belfast.
However, the paperwork is only the beginning. Successful aerial photography in Belfast Harbour requires:
ATC Coordination: Direct permission and constant communication with Air Traffic Control at the airport.
Harbour Police Liaison: Submitting a formal flight plan, license details, and proof of £10,000,000 public liability insurance.
Operational Compliance: Adhering to strict location and time restrictions.
The Responsibility of the Pilot On the day of the shoot, the responsibility for flight safety rests entirely with the pilot. I remained in constant contact with ATC, who dictated my maximum flight altitude (always below the legal 400ft limit) and monitored incoming flight arrivals and departures. During this specific shoot, I was asked to land three times to clear the way for commercial aircraft. In this environment, following ATC instructions is not a negotiation; it is a critical safety requirement.
Video footage of Harland & Wolff shipyard, captured by professional drone pilot David Cordner
Professional Preparation for Industrial Shoots Before the drone ever leaves the ground, a professional industrial photographer must complete a comprehensive site survey. This involves identifying hazards, checking NOTAMs(Notice to Air Missions), establishing emergency contacts, and conducting a thorough risk assessment.
Flying a drone professionally in a high-stakes environment like the Belfast Shipyard is a serious business. It requires a blend of creative vision and technical discipline to ensure that the final images—capturing the iconic Samson crane and the bustling harbour below—are delivered safely and legally.
Flying a drone professionally is a serious business.
