Star Symphony Joins Global ASTM Task Group to Develop Drone Show Safety Standards
Star Symphony Drone Shows is proud to announce that Director Andy Hubble has joined a newly formed ASTM International task group. This global initiative brings together leading drone show technology experts with the goal of developing internationally recognised safety standards for drone light shows.
The task group includes prominent companies and organisations from across Europe and around the world. Participants include representatives from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), NASA, Disney, Universal Studios, and other major players in the drone and entertainment industries.
Andy Hubble, Director Star Symphony Drone Shows
Convened by ASTM International, the task group is focused on establishing comprehensive safety standards for drone show operations. These standards will address key areas such as technical requirements, operational procedures, and risk management practices. The group is chaired by Nils Thorjussen, Executive Chairman and co-founder of Verge Aero.
Drone light shows have developed at a remarkable pace in recent years. What began as experimental technology in laboratories has become the foundation for large-scale, record-breaking displays around the world. However, there is considerable variation between systems in terms of sophistication and safety features. Similarly, not all operators adhere to the same levels of professionalism and diligence. In a market where cost pressures are high, safety can sometimes take a back seat.
The task group will consider a broad range of safety-related topics, including navigation redundancy, the use of current and reliable software, the integration of independent geofencing systems, robust long-range communications, operator training, and overall safety management.
Commenting on his involvement, Andy Hubble said: "It is a real privilege to contribute to shaping best practice in this growing industry. There is a wide range of drone light show systems available, from low-cost models with limited capabilities to high-end platforms offering multiple layers of redundancy and advanced lighting and pyrotechnic features. As an industry, it is vital that we establish clear safety standards that protect both audiences and operators."
He continued: "It is also rewarding to bring my experience from the pyrotechnics sector into the world of drone light shows, especially in the area of standards development."
Andy Hubble brings extensive experience in safety and standards development. He previously served on the CEN TC212 committee responsible for creating the European Standard for Professional Category F4 fireworks and represented the UK during negotiations in Brussels. He has contributed to numerous working groups reviewing explosives legislation and drafting new regulatory guidance. Andy chaired the UK’s professional fireworks display association for eight years and has served on the Council of the Institute of Explosives Engineers, representing the firework display sector. He also acts as a consultant and expert witness in matters relating to explosive safety, licensing, and transport.