A Breath-taking Glimpse from Above: Taylor Wimpey's Aston Reach in Aylesbury
When granted the rare opportunity to capture stunning aerial footage of Taylor Wimpey's Aston Reach development in Aylesbury, we were filled with excitement. Thanks to the Royal Air Force at RAF Horton, we secured two days of airspace clearance to capture the essence of this remarkable community. However, our journey was not without its share of challenges and unexpected encounters, reinforcing the importance of vigilance even when airspace is cleared.
Day 1: Battling the Elements
Our first day at Aston Reach was met with disappointment as Mother Nature unleashed her fury. Strong winds swept across the area, making it impossible to safely operate our aerial equipment. With a heavy heart, we could only manage to capture a few shots from the ground. The weather had played its hand, but we remained optimistic for the following day.
Day 2: Clear Skies and New Horizons
As dawn broke on the second day, a glimmer of hope emerged. The skies had cleared, albeit after a few hours of rain. This was our chance to soar above Taylor Wimpey's Aston Reach and capture the beauty that lay below. With cameras ready and spirits high, we set up our equipment and prepared for an unforgettable experience.
The Unexpected Close Encounter
As we were still on the ground, our preparations were interrupted by an unexpected and heart-stopping moment. A helicopter suddenly appeared overhead at an alarmingly low altitude. Its presence was entirely unanticipated, catching us off guard. It wasn't until the chopper came over the roof of a nearby house that we even noticed it.
The Importance of Vigilance
This incident served as a stark reminder of the need for unwavering vigilance when operating in controlled airspace. While we had been granted clearance by the Royal Air Force, we learned that one can never be too cautious. Had we been in the air, the outcome could have been drastically different.
In the best-case scenario, a collision might have resulted in an arduous process of paperwork and investigations. However, it's essential to recognize that in the worst-case scenario, the consequences could have been far more devastating.
Lessons Learned:
Never Assume Safety: No matter the level of coordination with base or control tower, it's crucial to never assume that the airspace is entirely safe. Unforeseen circumstances can always arise.
Constant Awareness: Maintain a constant awareness of your surroundings, even when on the ground. Aircraft can approach rapidly and unexpectedly.
Clear Communication: Communication with air traffic control and fellow operators in the area is key. Keep everyone informed about your operating area and heights.
Safety First: Prioritize safety above all else. If conditions are not ideal or if there's any doubt about the airspace's safety, don't hesitate to postpone the flight.
Conclusion:
Our aerial adventure over Taylor Wimpey's Aston Reach was a breathtaking experience, showcasing the beauty of this remarkable development. However, it was also a stark reminder that even with clearance from the authorities, the skies can be unpredictable. We must always maintain vigilance and prioritize safety, for the consequences of complacency in the world of aerial photography can be far-reaching and severe. A close encounter with an unexpected helicopter served as a valuable lesson, underscoring the importance of constant awareness and clear communication in the skies.