top of page

Q & A

Q. About safety

Recent rapid technological advances and the introduction of the latest technology into aircraft have greatly improved the stability and safety of aircraft. However, actual operation is not as easy as it looks. In all conditions, solid piloting skills and operational abilities are required. We use and operate drones that boast the highest level of safety and reliability. We also have the necessary certifications and always fly with the highest priority on safety.

Q. About flight approval

We have obtained comprehensive permission and approval from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism for flights of unmanned aircraft, so we can fly in areas throughout Japan in airspace prohibited under the Civil Aeronautics Law (over densely populated areas) and in any flight method (flights within 30 meters of people or houses, flights at night, flights outside visual line of sight). (flights within 30 meters of a person or house, nighttime flights, and out-of-sight flights). Aircraft are flown by pilots with first class unmanned aircraft operator skill certification (national qualification).

 

 

Q. What areas can be flown?

A. We never fly over people, except in special environments such as production sites where we are involved in filming. Also, we cannot fly over general roads, highways, railroads, airports, petroleum complexes, densely populated residential areas, or other areas where the law prohibits flying, or where the administrator prohibits flying. In addition, although not visible to the naked eye, flying may also be prohibited near power lines and substations, and near areas where professional specified radio equipment used for filming is used, due to concerns about radio interference that could adversely affect flight.

 

 

Q. What is the flight range and altitude?

A. Distance depends on weather conditions, but in principle, the flight operator's visual range should be within visual range under clear skies, good visibility, and minimal wind effects. Altitude can range from a few tens of centimeters above the ground to less than 150 meters, which is restricted under the Civil Aeronautics Law.

 

 

Q. Is it affected by weather conditions?

A. Yes, it is greatly affected by wind. (The gimbal is equipped with an automatic horizontal control system, so even if the aircraft shakes slightly, the images will be stable.) Depending on the weather conditions on the day of shooting, the pilot may decide not to fly in the event that safety is compromised or image quality cannot be maintained, or in the event of rain, as water droplets on the lens or damage to the aircraft may occur.

 

Q. Do you have insurance?

A. Yes, we have comprehensive liability insurance (1 billion yen) in case of emergency.

 

Q. How long is the flight time?

It varies depending on the aircraft, temperature, and wind speed, but a single flight takes about 20-30 minutes. To ensure safety, we land the aircraft when the battery power is at least 30%.

 

Q. Is the aircraft noisy?

A. No. Because it is powered by a motor, it flies very quietly compared to a normal RC aircraft with an engine.

 

Q. Can it fly in confined spaces?

A. Yes, as the aircraft is equipped with a guard. However, prior verification is required.

 

Q. What is the filming system?

A. Basically, we have a flight operator who focuses on piloting the aircraft and a camera operator who focuses on filming.

 

Q. Do I need a license or certification for aerial photography?

A. No. A license is not required to fly a drone for the purpose of aerial photography, but proper knowledge and advanced flying skills are necessary. Our operators are certified by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) as first class unmanned aircraft pilots and by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) as third class land special radio operators. They have also acquired private certifications such as JUIDA (Japan UAS Industry Development Association) certified unmanned aircraft pilot, safety flight operations manager, and DJI instructor.

 

Q. Can I fly over crowds?

A. No. We will never fly over crowds of people, or even small groups of people who are not authorized to fly.

We do not fly over any areas other than under special circumstances for the purpose of filming, and we do not fly over areas where there is a risk of human casualties.

 

Q. What about copyrights?

A. The copyright belongs to our company. If any subject whose portrait is protected by the copyright law (or may be) is included in the video, it is the responsibility of the customer to obtain prior approval.

Q. Do I need permission to film?

A. Yes, for locations that require prior filming permission or approval, such as specific organizations, municipalities, or facilities under their control, we ask our customers to obtain such permission in advance. We do not fly in situations where permission or approval has not been obtained.

Q/ How much does it cost to shoot?

We will propose a reasonable fee that will satisfy you. However, the specific fee will vary depending on your project, so we will provide you with an estimate after asking you about the details of your project. The fee structure is based on a base fee, optional fees, and travel expenses.

 

Q. What is the overall process?

 (1) We will ask you about the details of your project and provide you with an estimate.

     At that time, we will ask you about the basic concept, contents of the shoot, shooting points, intended use, delivery method, and other requirements,

     We will also ask whether or not you need to obtain prior permission.

  (2) Shooting will be conducted in the presence of the client.

  (3) We will issue an invoice at the same time as delivery in the requested method. 

 

 

Q. Do you work anywhere in Japan?

Yes, we do. We can handle orders from Hokkaido to Okinawa, remote islands, and anywhere in between.

 

Q. Do you support overseas filming?

A. Basically, we do not accept overseas filming because of legal issues in each country, such as handling accidents, insurance, and radio wave operation. However, it is possible for us to provide the following style of filming.

© 2016 by OUTWARD WORKS All Rights Reserved.

bottom of page