The use of unmanned aerial systems in the civil sector has developed rapidly over the past 20 years. UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) are now just as widespread in industrial applications as they are in hobby and leisure activities. Industrial applications such as the inspection of wind turbines, bridges and other structures, the surveying of buildings or industrial halls, or applications of authorities and organisations with security tasks such as SAR (Search and Rescue) missions, make UAS a versatile and effective tool.

With all the euphoria about the versatility of unmanned aerial systems, it is easy to forget that they are full participants in air traffic. They have the same rights and obligations as manned air traffic and thus no special rights.

It is sometimes difficult for the user to familiarise himself with all the rules and regulations and to apply them correctly. The Expert Committee for Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAV) of the VDI Aerospace Engineering Division has set itself the task of providing users with a guideline for the safe operation of UAVs with the help of a basic guideline.