BONUS: Drone News – B4UFLY App by Kittyhawk, Hobby Pilots to Use LAANC

March 1, 2019 by narinder

Hobbyist Pilots to Use LAANC, Kittyhawk B4UFLY App, Drone Shoot Down, DJI Geofencing in Asia-Pacific, Oil Spill in Canada, NYC Drone Film Festival, SAR in Fremont

In this week’s drone news, our first big story is about a new FAA law which mandates that hobbyist pilots use LAANC as well. Until now, there have been many hobby pilots who have not been notifying the ATC before flying in controlled airspace. So, is this new law a step in the right direction? Also, we discuss the timely launch of Kittyhawk’s Dynamic Airspace platform and the B4UFLY app which will allow commercial AND hobbyist pilots to use LAANC.

Next, we share details of another drone shoot down story. A pilot searching for a missing dog in Long Island had his drone shot down. Will the shooter face a federal investigation? Is the DOJ adopting a tough stance to prevent such acts from occurring in the future?

Our next big story is about an oil spill near St. Lazare, Canada. Early Saturday morning, a train carrying crude oil derailed and resulted in this oil spill. The extent of this spill was discovered thanks to two drone pilots who posted their aerial footage to social media. Will the frozen ground prevent oil seepage and hence, limit environmental damage?

We also share some exciting details about upcoming events like the FAA Symposium and the NYC Drone Film Festival. Other topics discussed include DJI Geofencing in Asia-Pacific and a successful search and rescue effort in Fremont. Tune in now!

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Timestamps

[00:28] Paul welcomes Haye to the show
[01:27] Hobbyist pilots to use LAANC for airspace authorization?
[03:45] KittyHawk releases Dynamic Airspace platform, and the B4U Fly App
[05:33] Another drone shootdown in Long Island
[09:33] DJI Geofencing V2.0 rolls out in Asia-Pacific
[11:05] Drones used to expose an oil spill in Canada
[14:13] 2019 FAA UAS Symposium rescheduled to June 3-5
[15:07] NYC Drone Film Festival being held at the Liberty Science Center, March 1-2
[17:03] Drone used in a successful search and rescue in Fremont, California

Tags: controlled airspace, DJI, drone, FAA, geofencing, kittyhawk, laanc, quadcopter, Safety, search and rescue, uav

ADU 950: Can I Use the Mavic 2 Zoom for Drone Mapping?

February 28, 2019 by narinder

In today’s show, we discuss whether you can use the Mavic 2 Zoom for drone mapping. With alternatives like the Phantom 4 Pro and now the Phantom 4 Pro RTK available, is the Mavic 2 Zoom even an option worth considering?

Our caller, Joe from Omaha, Nebraska is wondering if the Mavic 2 Zoom is suitable for drone mapping. Can Joe build an accurate drone map using the Mavic 2 Zoom which has a rolling shutter? To answer Joe’s question, Paul shares how he created a helicopter model using the Phantom 4 Pro and the Mavic 2 Enterprise (which has the same camera as the Mavic 2 Zoom) at our recent NTSB training. Were the Mavic 2 mapping results comparable to that of the Phantom 4 Pro?

We also discuss if drone mappers should consider replacing the Phantom 4 Pro with the Phantom 4 RTK. Does the Phantom 4 RTK allow for a faster mapping workflow? You will learn that good and stable network connectivity is a prerequisite for using the Phantom 4 RTK. Finally, how do factors like terrain and temperature affect network connectivity? Tune in to find out. Thanks for the great question, Joe. Fly Safe!

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Timestamps

[01:04] Today’s question is about using the Mavic 2 Zoom for drone mapping
[02:18] Paul compares mapping results for Mavic 2 Zoom, Mavic 2 Pro, and Phantom 4 Pro
[04:23] Good network connectivity is a prerequisite for using the Phantom 4 RTK in drone mapping
[04:54] Should drone mappers switch from the Phantom 4 Pro to the Phantom 4 Pro RTK?
[05:07] How do terrain and climate affect network connectivity?
[07:35] Can you completely do away with GCP’s if you are using the Phantom 4 RTK?

Tags: drone, drone mapping, FAA, mavic 2, phantom 4 pro, phantom 4 rtk, quadcopter, Safety, uav, UAV mapping

ADU 0949: LiDAR | Mapping an Area with Dense Vegetation

February 27, 2019 by narinder

How Do I Accurately Map an Area with Dense Vegetation?

In today’s show, you will learn why LiDAR is your best bet for creating a bare earth model of an area with dense vegetation.

Our caller, Cody wishes to survey a 20-acre property with dense foliage. He is wondering if he can generate an accurate map by using photogrammetry and Aeropoints. To answer Cody’s question, we first discuss the difference between photogrammetry, a passive technology; and LiDAR, an active technology.

Will using LiDAR result in significant time savings when it comes to data acquisition and post-processing? Also, how much area can you map in a single day using a LiDAR unit? And, is it true that a LiDAR unit costs a small fortune? We also discuss the cost of renting a LiDAR unit and reveal why it is such an attractive proposition. You will also learn how MEMS technology might make LiDAR more affordable in the future.

Also, watch out for Cody’s response to ADU 921- Can I Build a Profitable Drone Business by Providing Services to the Agriculture Industry?. Cody reminds Drone U listeners to invest in the right equipment and expand their knowledge base before venturing into the agricultural industry. Thanks for the great question and your thoughtful response, Cody. Fly Safe!

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Timestamps

[04:20] Today’s question is about mapping an area with dense vegetation
[05:28] Our caller Cody has some great Tips for drone pilots taking up jobs in the agricultural industry
[07:47] Do you need a multispectral camera for agricultural drone mapping?
[08:38] Paul shares that Drone U Members shall be able to rent LiDAR and GPS units at discounted rates
[09:05] LiDar vs. Photogrammetry – Is LiDAR the best option for creating a bare earth model of an area with dense vegetation?
[10:57] Is renting a LiDAR unit a cost-effective alternative?
[12:06] Will using LiDAR result in significant time savings when it comes to data acquisition and post-processing?
[13:24] How much area can you map in a single day using a LiDAR unit?
[14:38] What will be the cost of surveying a 20-acre tract of land using traditional means?
[15:05] Do you need a surveyor to sign off on your drone maps?
[17:55] Will MEMS technology make LiDAR more affordable in the future?

Tags: drone, drone mapping, drone survey, FAA, lidar, multirotor, photogrammetry, quadcopter, Safety, survey, uav, UAV mapping

ADU 0948: How Do I Get Airspace Approval To Fly Near An Airport Without LAANC?

February 25, 2019 by narinder

In today’s show, we reveal how a drone pilot can get speedy airspace approval to fly near an airport without LAANC.

Our caller wishes to fly in controlled airspace near an airport. Unfortunately, the airport does not have LAANC. How can our pilot get airspace approval? Of course, he can apply for airspace approval using FAA’s DroneZone. However, this is a cumbersome process that can take up to 90 days. Can a drone pilot get airspace approval for an airport quickly without LAANC?

In this show, you will learn that tower operators have the ultimate authority to permit you to fly in controlled airspace. However, many tower operators have a biased opinion about the drone industry, making it extremely difficult for you to get permission.

How should you communicate with the tower operator to increase your chances of getting airspace approval? And, why is it a good idea to record your conversation with the tower operator? For all this and much more, tune in to our latest show. Thanks for the great question. Fly Safe!

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Timestamps

[01:47] Today’s question is about flying near a non-LAANC airport
[02:20] Are tower operators prone to not granting drone pilots airspace approval?
[03:20] Options for getting airspace authorization near a non-LAANC airport
[04:16] How to communicate with the Air Traffic Controller and get speedy airspace approval
[07:40] Can you fly in controlled airspace on the basis of a notification?
[08:08] Do tower operators have the authority to permit you to fly in controlled airspace?

Tags: airspace approval, drone, FAA, laanc, multirotor, quadcopter, Safety, uav

BONUS: Drone News – Matrice 200 V2, Osmo Plus, Phantom 4 RTK, Drones for Spotting Sharks, SAR, Police Drones

February 22, 2019 by narinder

Matrice 200 V2, Firmware Updates for Osmo Plus and Phantom 4 RTK, Drones for Spotting Sharks, SAR in Michigan, NYPD’s Drone Policy and More by Ask Drone U

In this week’s drone news, our first story is about DJI announcing the release of the Matrice 200 V2. Learn how enhanced data security and additional hardware might make more drone applications possible. Yes, that’s right. This upgraded enterprise-level solution is equipped for nighttime and BVLOS operations.

Next, we discuss the latest firmware updates for Osmo Plus and Phantom 4 RTK. Specifically, the previous firmware in the Phantom 4 RTK was bugged, which sometimes caused the drone to land mid-mission. Does this latest firmware adequately address this issue?

The biggest story of this show is undoubtedly the rollout of KittyHawk’s new Dynamic Airspace. Why is everyone in the drone industry raving about this all-in-one solution? You will learn how this new app will result in greater compliance, risk mitigation, and control over airspace.

Other topics discussed include drones for detecting sharks, drones for search & rescue, and NYPD’s drone policies. Tune in now!

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Timestamps

[00:32] Paul welcomes Haye to the show
[01:10] DJI announces the Matrice 200 V2 and FlightHub Enterprise
[05:31] Firmware updates for Osmo Plus and Phantom 4 RTK
[07:18] KittyHawk rolls out its new Dynamic Airspace system
[12:43] “Little Ripper” drone spots sharks and saves lives in Australia
[13:27] Can drones aid in wildlife preservation efforts?
[16:37] Drones for Good – A Mavic 2 used in a successful SAR effort in Michigan
[18:23] NYPD seeks authority to bring down drones

Tags: drone, FAA, Matrice 200, mavic 2, phantom 4 rtk, quadcopter, Safety, search and rescue, uav

BONUS: ULC Updates “Tort Law Relating To Drones Act”. How Will The Passage Of This Proposed Law Affect Drone Industry?

February 22, 2019 by narinder

In today’s episode, we talk about the Uniform Law Commission (ULC) and their work on the “Tort Law Relating to Drones Act.”

Vic joins Rob for this significant and animated discussion. ULC first proposed the “Tort Law Relating to Drones Act” in March of 2018. Back then, we analyzed this proposed Bill in great detail and revealed how the passage of this Bill would have severely restricted airspace, making commercial drone operations nearly impossible. Fortunately, this first draft was scrapped.

ULC just released their second draft after making some significant modifications to the first one. In this show, we pour over the fine print and reveal the pros & cons of this new proposed Bill. How does this Bill define an “aircraft intrusion”? And, what qualifies as a “land intrusion”? Would you be intruding on private land if you have to make an emergency landing? And, does this proposed bill attempt to curtail overly aggressive behavior from the landowner? You will also learn how this proposed bill treats “privacy violations” and “negligent behavior.”

The ULC is meeting in March to consider some important modifications to this proposed Bill. How can you contribute to this process? After going through the proposed bill, you can email your suggestions to [email protected]. Please address your email to Paul Kurtz, Chair, Tort Law Relating to Drones Act Committee or Anita Ramasastry, President, ULC. Also, if you wish to receive regular updates, you can easily do so by clicking HERE.

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Timestamps

[00:39] Rob welcomes Vic to the show
[00:52] A Special Thanks to our gracious sponsor, Go Professional Cases
[01:10] What is the the Uniform Law Commission(ULC)?
[02:25] Recalling the “Tort Law Relating to Drones Act” which was first proposed in March of 2018
[04:12] What is the status of the first draft?
[05:35] Was the first draft good or bad for the drone industry?
[06:12] Prominent organizations that vehemently opposed the passage of the first draft
[08:13] Vic explains “Tort Law” in simple terms
[09:47] Has there been a significant modification to the first draft?
[11:26] Does the new proposed law apply to government entities as well?
[12:37] Are there any entities that are exempt from this proposed law?
[14:18] How does the new draft define “aircraft intrusion”?
[16:02] 10 factors or circumstances that might result in your flight being categorized as an “aircraft intrusion”
[18:20] Will you be intruding airspace if you are taking images while flying over a property?
[19:10] How does the new drone bill define “intrusion on land”?
[20:05] Would an emergency landing be regarded as an “intrusion on land”?
[21:55] Vic reads out “Landowner’s Duties and Responsibilities” as described in the second draft; does this section favor the drone pilot or landowner?
[23:40] Do Privacy Guidelines in the new draft place greater restrictions on drone pilots?
[26:28] How does the new draft define “Negligent operations”?
[27:22] Is there a need for greater restrictions on drone pilots?
[28:28] Important questions that the ULC shall be addressing in their upcoming meeting in March
[29:00] Should the definition of an “operator” be included in the draft?
[29:20] Should provisions of “Self-help” be explicitly addressed in the act beyond the provisions of section 7?
[31:09] Will a drone owner have the right to retrieve his drone if it lands on private land?
[33:17] Should the totality argument in Section 8 be retained in all circumstances?
[35:16] Does the passage of the Tort Law bode well for the drone industry?
[39:03] How you can help in the passage of this proposed law?

Tags: drone, drone laws, FAA, multirotor, quadcopoter, Safety, Tort Law, uav

BONUS: Interview with NTSB’s Cathy Gagne – How Are Drones Being Used For NTSB Investigations?

February 20, 2019 by narinder

In today’s show, we are joined by Cathy Gagne, technical analyst with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).

Cathy kicks it off by giving us a brief overview of her work at NTSB. We then discuss how many airplane crashes occur each year and how NTSB investigates those crashes. You will learn how incorporating drones into their workflow has allowed NTSB investigators to extract actionable insights with greater efficiency.

Is using drones for accident reconstruction significantly faster than the traditional methods? In response to this question, Cathy shares how she was able to map a runway at breakneck speed without shutting down the airport. Cathy also reveals how drones were used to assess wind damage in an MD-83 before takeoff. For all this and much more, tune in to our latest show!

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Become a Drone U Member. Access over 30 courses, resources, plus our incredible community. Try it for $1.

Timestamps

[00:24] Paul welcomes Cathy to the show
[01:00] Cathy shares her background, and reveals how she ended up at NTSB
[02:26] How many airplane crashes take place every year?
[03:42] Cathy explains how an airplane crash investigation is conducted
[05:13] Typical deliverables that are generated in an airplane crash investigation
[06:01] Does using drones for accident reconstruction result in considerable time savings?
[08:23] Cathy recounts the speed and efficiency with which she mapped an airplane accident in Vegas
[09:58] What sort of deliverables can you generate using drones?
[11:26] Learn how Cathy was able to map a runway without shutting down the airport
[14:34] Cathy reveals how drones were used to generate an “Airplane Performance Report” and detect wind damage in an MD-83
[18:22] Does Cathy foresee drones being used for more applications in the future?
[21:23] Paul shares some interesting information about the upcoming Accident Reconstruction Training at NTSB Training Academy taking place from May 14-17

Tags: accident investigation, accident reconstruction, drone, FAA, multirotor, quadcopter, Safety, uav

BONUS: Skywatch vs. Verifly vs. Droneinsurance.com | On-Demand Drone Insurance Comparison

February 19, 2019 by narinder

Does Verifly Really Offer the Cheapest On-Demand Drone Insurance?

On today’s episode, we compare on-demand insurance offered by the three major providers – Skywatch, Verifly, and Droneinsurance.com. By the end of the show, you’ll be able to determine which provider is the right one for your needs.

We chose this topic because of the paralyzing effect that multiple insurance options can have on drone pilots. Not only that, but making the wrong choice might mean improper coverage and unnecessary business expenses. In today’s show, Paul conducts a DETAILED cost-benefit analysis of these three major on-demand insurance providers.

Which provider offers the cheapest coverage? How do you get assigned a safety score by Skywatch? And, can you significantly lower your insurance cost once you get assigned a safety score by Skywatch? You will also learn the effect of factors such as drone type, drone deliverable, and insurance period on your insurance cost. For all this and much more, tune in to our latest show. Fly Safe!

Wish to learn more about drone insurance? You can also check out our Comprehensive Drone Insurance Guide.

Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad!

Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.

Become a Drone U Member. Access over 30 courses, resources, plus our incredible community. Try it for $1.

Timestamps

[00:48] How to determine the best on-demand insurance for you
[03:02] Does it matter if you opt for an “admitted insurance” carrier over a “non-admitted
carrier?
[04:26] Is Skywatch really cheaper than Verifly and Droneinsurance.com?
[06:20] What are the different policy options offered by Skywatch?
[07:15] How do you build a safety score with Skywatch?
[08:17] Will the cost of insurance differ for different drones?
[08:36] Is insurance cost dependent on your drone deliverable?
[09:42] Can you get a Skywatch safety score if you are using enterprise drones?
[10:44] How much did Paul end up saving on his insurance after getting assigned a safety score by Skywatch?
[11:04] Is it more cost effective to get insured for a longer duration?
[11:45] Verifly vs. Skywatch vs. Drone Insurance – How do insurance costs compare?
[12:07] Do all providers provide the option of adding an “additional insured”?
[13:23] What is base coverage?
[13:35] Skywatch vs. Drone insurance – Who provides cheaper monthly insurance?
[14:55] How do you understand the particulars of your insurance policy?
[15:25] Which provider offers the cheapest coverage? Verifly, Skywatch or Droneinsurance.com?
[16:00] Can you upload your log files to Skywatch?

Tags: drone, drone insurance, FAA, insurance cover, multirotor, quadcopter, Safety, uav, verifly

ADU 0947: How to Fix Weak Signal Strength While Flying Your Drone

February 18, 2019 by narinder

In today’s show, we discuss how pilots can boost the signal strength of their drones. Also, is it common to encounter weak signal strength while out flying? If so, what are some practical ways of resolving this?

Our caller, Dan from Ohio, is experiencing low signal strength when flying his Phantom 4 Pro. To deal with this problem, Dan is using parabolic antennas. Is that the right thing to do? We also discuss the most likely causes for low signal strength and provide some EXPERT tips to fix this problem. Thanks for the great question, Dan. Fly Safe!

Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad!

Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.

Become a Drone U Member. Access over 30 courses, resources, plus our incredible community. Try it for $1.

Timestamps

[03:08] A special thanks to our sponsor, Go Professional Cases
[03:28] Today’s question is about boosting signal strength
[04:20] How to overcome low signal strength while flying your drone
[05:44] Do drone pilots normally face signal loss issues on the Phantom 4 Pro?
[06:07] Is it legal to use signal boosters?
[07:53] Will the use of parabolic antennas improve signal quality?
[11:12] Share, Review, and Subscribe to the show. Your encouragement keeps us going!

Tags: drone, FAA, multirotor, quadcopter, Safety, signal strength, uav

BONUS: Drone News | Drones for Landmine Detection, Oklahoma Drone Laws, DJI Geofencing, Search & Rescue

February 15, 2019 by narinder

In this week’s drone news, you will learn about Oklahoma drone laws, FAA’s new requirement, and believe it or not…drones for landmine detection. Tune in now!

Phantom 4 Pro for Landmine Detection and FAA’s New Requirement

In this week’s drone news, our first story is about drones being deployed as landmine detectors. Yes, you read that correctly. We explain how students have modified the Phantom 4 Pro to detect Russian-made butterfly mines. The next story is about the FAA’s new requirement mandating the display of a registration number on the outside of your drone. How are drone pilots reacting to this new FAA requirement?

DJI Geofencing in Europe and Oklahoma Drone Laws

We also share details about DJI’s recent move to update their geofencing system in Europe. Is this a knee-jerk reaction to the Gatwick and Heathrow “incidents?” Other topics discussed include Oklahoma’s new drone laws and search & rescue drones. Tune in now!

Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.

Timestamps

[00:23] Paul welcomes Haye on the show
[01:06] Phantom 4 Pro’s as landmine detectors?
[02:56] New FAA requirement mandates displaying your registration number on the outside of the drone
[05:41] Voting for FAA’s NPRM is open now
[06:31] DJI updates geofencing system after Gatwick “scare”
[08:22] Will new Oklahoma drone laws place restrictions on hobby pilots?
[12:00] Halifax firefighters successfully conduct a search and rescue mission using a Matrice M210
[16:10] Share, Review, and Subscribe to our show. Your encouragement keeps us going!