Our Flying Areas
The DIP Drone Hub provides access to two grassed flying areas within Dorset Innovation Park: the Playing Field and Zenith. The areas may be requested individually or together, providing different environments for training, demonstrations, aircraft evaluation, payload testing and structured development work.
Zenith
Zenith is approximately 3.5 acres and offers a smaller, more enclosed flying environment. The area is lined by trees, giving it a clearly defined character that can suit controlled demonstrations, training and trials that do not require the larger operating space available at the Playing Field.
After entering Dorset Innovation Park through the security gate, continue for approximately 600 yards. At the roundabout, take the left exit; Zenith is situated on the left-hand side. A hardstanding area is also available alongside the grassed flying space, providing a practical location for aircraft preparation, equipment setup and supporting vehicles.
Potential uses
- Remote-pilot training
- Aircraft demonstrations
- Prototype evaluation
- Payload and sensor testing
- Customer familiarisation
- Short, repeatable test flights
The Playing Field
At approximately 8.5 acres, the Playing Field is the larger and more open of the two areas. It is the natural choice for activities requiring additional ground space, longer flight lines, multiple operating positions or greater separation between the flight team and supporting equipment.
The central area is predominantly open and grassed, with established trees along the western side providing a clear visual boundary. The position of the trees and their possible effect on local wind and turbulence should be considered during flight planning and the day-of-flight assessment.
Potential uses
- Remote-pilot training
- Aircraft demonstrations
- Payload and sensor trials
- Flight-performance testing
- Emergency-services exercises
- Structured test programmes
Access and arrival
Both flying areas are located within the secure Dorset Innovation Park site. All visits must be booked in advance, and visitor details may be provided to site security before arrival. Final directions and the agreed meeting point will be supplied with the approved booking.
All visitors must show valid identification when requested at the security gate.
Choosing an area
The most appropriate area will depend on the aircraft, planned flight profile, number of participants, supporting equipment and purpose of the session. Customers may request Zenith, the Playing Field or both areas when submitting a booking.
Vaspba will review the proposed activity and confirm whether the requested area is suitable.
Booking and operational approval
Availability of an area does not itself constitute permission to fly. Every request remains subject to review of the proposed activity, aircraft, personnel, insurance, operating permissions, RAMS and current site conditions.
Booking both areas reserves both spaces but does not automatically approve simultaneous aircraft operations. Any concurrent flying will be considered as part of the operational review.