Published date: 14 February 2024

Massey University School of Aviation invites all users of remotely piloted aircraft (RPAs, also known as drones, UAVs, model aircraft, etc.) to participate in a study examining the prevalence of violence and aggression towards RPA users, and the nature of such events. Your participation is essential in understanding the nature of such events and contributes to the advancement of knowledge in aviation safety.

Conducted by Claire Walton as part of her Master of Aviation studies under the supervision of Dr Isaac Henderson and Dr Thanh Ngo, this study aims to gather insights from RPA users.

The research team encourage all RPA users to complete the survey, regardless of whether or not they have ever experienced violence or aggression aimed at them while conducting operations.

The survey is designed to take between 5 and 20 minutes, providing a comprehensive understanding of your experiences. Your responses will be aggregated and anonymised to maintain confidentiality.

The Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand acknowledges the importance of this research and encourages all RPA users to participate. Your perspectives are crucial in shaping the outcomes of the study. The data collected will be shared with key stakeholders, including UAVNZ/Aviation New Zealand, and will be able to assist CAA with better informed risk-based decision making and enhanced safety outcomes with respect to the issue.

Thank you for your willingness to contribute to this important research. Your involvement helps create a safer and more informed environment for remotely piloted aircraft users.

You can read more about the study and access the full information sheet at the following link:

Violence and aggression towards remotely piloted aircraft pilots and ground crew: An international study(external link)

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