Getting Started With Drones

Eight Pro Tips For Success

- Team Rotordrone Pro

With advances in self-stabilization and GPS-positioning programs, today’s multirotors have morphed into amazing uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs). For the most part, there are two types of available drones: commercial and prosumer grade. So whether you’re a curious tech-savvy consumer just looking for something new to try or you want to try your hand at aerial digital photography and video, there are plenty of choices available. This article is a great place to start as we’ll go over some of the basics of controlling drones.

1. Know the Rules

Before we get into the nuts and bolts of flying a drone, there are some things to consider. First, you’ll need to determine what you want to do with your drone. Will you be a recreational pilot, or do you want to make money flying your drone as a commercial operator? You need to be aware of the rules and regulations that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has put in place for operating drones in the United States. Recreational pilots must pay a $5 fee to the FAA to register their drones for outdoor flying. (Note: If you have a toy drone that weighs less than 8.8 ounces, no registration is required.) Also, even with the FAA registration, you are limited to drones that weigh less than 55 pounds. If you want to operate an industrial-grade UAV, then you’ll have to submit the paperwork and pass an FAA test to receive your Part 107 certification. When you’re certified, you’ll be able to use your drone to capture aerial images and video for pay. Regardless of the type of drone you have, the basic rules of operation are the following:

Fly your drone at or below an altitude of 400 feet.

Always keep your drone within sight.

Never fly near other aircraft, especially near airports.

Never fly your within five miles of an airport unless you have permission.

Never fly your drone over groups of people.