GDP Flight Testing
Updated: 07/01/2026
Details
Through sponsorship from Boeing UK we are putting on three flight tests for GDPs in the second semester. These give you the opportunity to test and iterate your design, collect data, and learn about field-testing (experiencing the highs and lows of problem solving on an airfield!).
We also run two "Airshow" days. You should invite your supervisor (and examiner) to attend these and show off your prototype, collect the final data for your project, and get some photos and videos to celebrate your achievements.
Please note that the photographer for the UoS Design Show will also attend these days to get the photos of your system for the Design Show. However, you will not get access to these photos, so please make sure to capture your own images and videos for your module deliverables / assessments.
Dates
The dates for the academic year 2025/26 have now been confirmed and can be found in the table below.
| Flight test Number | Date |
|---|---|
| Flight Test 1 | 25-02-2026 |
| Flight Test 2 | 11-03-2026 |
| Flight Test 3 | 25-03-2026* |
| Airshow Day 1 | 22-04-2026 |
| Airshow Day 2 | 27-04-2026 |
*Please note that due to the earlier Easter this year this date is during the Easter vacation so if you wish to attend please plan accordingly. **This test date has been removed due to the proximity to the Airshow Days and staffing commitments in the period after Easter vacation.
Booking on to a GDP Flight Test
Please use the form below to book on to a flight test (select Soton UAV Flight Test). If this form does not render correctly on this webpage you can follow this link to the Soton UAV Flight Test Booking.
Location
Below is an interactive map of the flight test site and the route to get to it once passed the electronic gate at the entrance of Draycot Airfield. The speed limit on the airfield side of this gate is 10 mph. If you are seen to be driving faster you will be asked to leave.
Follow directions to the electronic gate (///hears.speak.trip) The electronic gate will either be opened for you or we will provide you with a code to use on the day.
Timings
The flight test day will run from 09:00 to 16:00 at which point the Soton UAV Team will pack-up and depart. You may finish earlier if you complete your intended tests or can no longer fly.
It takes roughly 1.5 hours to travel from Southampton to Draycot Airfield (and often longer on the return trip), so please account for this in your plan.
Transport
Please make your own way to the airfield with your own equipment (UAV and support equipment). There are several parking spaces at the site so we will be able to accommodate all attending teams.
If you cannot provide your own transport please either arrange with another team that is attending or contact the Soton UAV Team, we have limited seats available and will be first come, first served.
If your equipment is too large to transport in your own vehicle, then please get in contact with the Soton UAV Team and we will see if we can assist.
Facilities
There are limited facilities provided on the airfield. You will find:
- a small inside rest space
- a covered outside build space
- two port-a-loos
- a kettle for hot drinks
- Mains power and WiFi
Clothing
Please dress according to the weather. The testing takes place on an open airfield where there is little shelter from all the elements: sun, rain and wind. Wind chill is a serious threat in colder months and sunburn/sunstroke is equally serious in warmer months. With this in mind, please bring:
Colder months
- warm layers (layering clothing is more effective and gives you more options)
- windproof layers
- warm hats
- warm gloves
- sensible footwear
- plenty of water
Warmer months
- sun cream
- sunhat
- clothes to protect/cover your skin from the sun
- sensible footwear
- plenty of water
If you are unsure, pack for both - it is better to have too many options than not enough.
We will provide you with hi-vis jackets for when you are on the flight line.
Food and drink
There is no food available on the airfield so please bring your own food. Alternatively, there is a garage (///task.every.handy) 5 minutes drive away that sells food.
There is also limited water on the airfield for making hot drinks, so again please bring your own water to drink. If you have your own reusable cup please bring that for hot drinks to reduce waste.
Medical conditions
If you have any medical conditions that the Soton UAV Team need to be aware of while you are under their supervision on the flight test, please complete this Flight Test Medical Information Form.
Important
- Please follow our instructions throughout the day. These will be either for your safety or for your convenience.
- Please drive slowly (less than 10 mph) on site and keep an eye on the sky around our operating area - we may already be operating. It is also an active airfield.
- If you are not sure, please ask us.
Feedback
Finally, once you have attended a flight test please can you provide some feedback to us about your experience so we can continue to improve what we offer and to inform our sponsors of the benefits their donations make to your student experience.
Please fill in this feedback form.