What action is required when you want to operate a drone over a crowd?

When intending to operate a drone over a crowd, obtaining specific permission from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is a necessary requirement. This is due to the heightened risks associated with flying over people, as it involves significant safety considerations. Operating drones in populated areas is closely regulated to ensure the safety of individuals on the ground, and specific permissions are typically needed to mitigate risks related to potential accidents or injuries.

This requirement is established to ensure that drone operators adhere to safety regulations that protect both the public and the operator. The CAA has established guidelines and protocols that focus on risk assessment, ensuring that the operator has a solid plan to manage any potential hazards associated with flying over groups of people.

The other actions, such as doing nothing special or simply notifying local police, do not address the specific regulatory requirement that comes with the responsibility of operating in such sensitive environments. Flying at a lower altitude does not inherently reduce risks and may still violate regulations. Therefore, seeking explicit permission from the CAA is the most appropriate action in this scenario.