UAS Resources

Presented on April 15, 2021

Public safety agencies are one of the fastest growing adopters of uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) technology. Utilizing UAS provides opportunities and advantages to law enforcement, fire, and emergency management, but knowing where to start in developing a UAS operation can be complicated. This webinar provides guidance to public safety and emergency management organizations on how to start a UAS operation. 

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Presented on February 25, 2021

The Federal Aviation Administration has announced several changes related to uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) operations that will go into effect in 2021. These regulation changes are important for every new and existing UAS pilot to understand. The updates to the federal regulations primarily cover remote identification of unmanned aircraft, operations over people, operations at night, and requirements for recurrent training for remote pilots.

Update: On March 10th, in accordance with a memorandum from the White House, the FAA published another delay to the upcoming Part 107 regulatory changes. This delay pushes the availability of the updated Initial Aeronautical Knowledge Test, and the new online Recurrent Training course, back to April 6th, 2021. Additionally, the effective date for the updates to 107.29 (Night Operations) and 107.39 (Operations Over People) has been delayed until April 21st, 2021. As a result, the effective dates mentioned in the webinar on February 25th are now void. Please review the correction announcement for more information.

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Presented on January 15, 2019

Uncrewed aircraft systems, more commonly known as drones, are both popular gifts over the holiday season and a widespread hobby for flying enthusiasts. Many systems are sold and marketed as ready to fly, however, it is important that consumers are up-to-date with important regulations and safety practices. This webinar discusses important safety practices, flying rules and regulations, and tips for operating your UAS.

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Under the revised Part 107 rules, night waivers are not required. To operate at night, you must have passed either the Initial Aeronautical Knowledge Test for Part 107, or the online Recurrent Training after April 6th, 2021. Additionally, you must have a strobe light attached to your aircraft that is visible for at least 3 statute miles.

According to Part 107.31, the Remote Pilot in Command must be able to see the UAS at all times. This means that while the RPIC does not need to be looking at the UAS, they must have the ability to look up, and see their aircraft. Daisy chaining visual observers is not allowed under Part 107 without a waiver.

Once you have taken the Initial Test, you will never be required to take it again. If your currency lapses, you are not able to fly under Part 107 until you have taken the Recurrent Training. Once you have taken the Recurrent Training, your 24-calendar months starts over again.

UAS being used for commercial purposes (Part 107) must be registered if they weigh less than 55lbs, including aircraft that weigh less than .55lbs. For those flying as hobbyists, aircraft that weigh less than .55lbs do not need to be registered with the FAA.

Package delivery is allowed under Part 107 so long as you are able to maintain VLOS. If you intend to fly the UAS beyond your VLOS, you must obtain a Part 135 certification.

The most popular companies on the commercial market at this time are DJI, Skydio, Autel, and Parrot. These companies all provide a number of different aircraft, and each has their own pros/cons.