Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Wednesday, 9 July 2025

Joint Oireachtas Committee on Transport

Unmanned Aircraft Systems: Discussion

2:00 am

Mr. Jim Gavin:

If I may conclude, a Chathaoirligh, drone operations continue to grow and innovate across Europe and in Ireland. Today, more than 8,000 drone operators and 23,000 remote pilots are registered with the IAA. Drone operations, such as building inspections and surveys, photography and deliveries are routine and commonplace daily activities across the State but represent only the beginning of the advancement and innovation possible with this technology. The IAA understands the commercial appetite for future growth, as was mentioned, innovation and opportunity with the expanding use of drones for societal, recreational and business purposes. However, first and foremost, the IAA is the aviation safety regulator - independent, effective and competent - and it does not compromise on the regulatory safety standards to be applied.

We will continue to conduct safety oversight of all drone operations in Ireland, as we have done for the last ten years. We will continue to promote drone safety with the public and take enforcement action when required. We will also continue to contribute proactively to constructive rulemaking nationally and internationally and work closely with both the Government and local authorities to support and shape the continuing safe evolution of this technology. I am happy to take questions.

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