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Model Aircraft

Model aircraft are correctly known as ‘Small Aircraft’ and comprise any model which weighs no more than 7kg without fuel. ‘Models’ of greater weight are legally the same as full-sized aircraft but, as they and their operators are notable to comply with the requirements of the Air Navigation Order, their operators may apply to the Civil Aviation Authority (General Aviation Department) for an exemption to be issued.

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Model Aircraft | International Advice

Specialist: Chris McNally

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Chris has supported productions from all types of programmes during his career. He joined First Option in 2013 from the BBC where he was a safety adviser to drama, entertainment and factual productions from entertainment shows through to Sports OBs. He has been Deputy Head of Safety since 2018 and now manages a team of consultants as well as overseeing a number of high-profile shows. He is also a trainer, in particular the presentation of our Senior Managers’ Briefing, and one of the approved trainers for our internal IOSH Production Safety course.

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Article last updated on Feb 14th, 2026

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