Today we have a very special show. Brandon Packman from Skywatch joins Paul to discuss their different drone insurance products which have been creating quite a buzz.

In this episode, you will discover all pertinent details of Skywatch’s revolutionary and well thought of drone insurance. Does Skywatch offer liability insurance as well as hull insurance? Who is the underwriting partner for Skywatch?

Skywatch’s insurance products reward drone pilots for safe flying by assigning them a score. But, do you need to use the Skywatch app in order to avail their discount? And does Skywatch integrate with other popular mapping applications? Tune in now to learn all about this innovation solution. Fly Safe!

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Timestamps

• [00:39] Paul introduces Brandon to listeners
• [01:18] Brief background of Skywatch; learn what sets Skywatch apart from other drone insurance products
• [01:47] How Skywatch is attempting to emulate safe driver discounts
• [03:30] Does Skywatch offer a monthly plan?
• [03:50] Does Skywatch offer liability and hull insurance?
• [05:06] How does the Skywatch algorithm work?
• [06:15] How to obtain certificate of insurance using Skywatch
• [08:03] Brandon share details about their monthly plan
• [08:54] Brandon shares his contact details
• [09:38] What is the difference between liability and hull insurance?
• [10:22] Who is the underwriting partner for Skywatch?
• [11:32] Is Skywatch available in New York? We discuss usage based insurance
• [13:30] How many claims have been made so far?
• [15:01] Do you need to fly through the Skywatch app in case you need to avail their discount?
• [16:41] Does Skywatch integrate with DroneDeploy?
• [17:21] What about Mappilot? Does Skywatch offer integration?
• [18:35] Brandon elaborates on how Skywatch calculates the safety score
• [20:40] Brandon shares his contact details

Today’s episode is about fixing a drifting horizon line. A drifting horizon line is an eyesore that can potentially lead to unhappy clients. So, what are some Tips and Tricks to deal with this problem?

We have another great question lined up for you today. Our caller is unsure how she can fix a drifting horizon line. Can calibrating your IMU help you deal with this issue? If yes, what are some ways to correctly calibrate your IMU? We also discuss how knowing how addressing this common pain point can help you find new clients for your drone business. Thanks to the caller for the great question. Fly Safe!

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

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

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

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Timestamps

• [01:30] Today’s question is about fixing a drifting horizon line
• [02:13] Can an IMU calibration help you deal with this issue?
• [02:36] Can you easily correct a drifting horizon line?
• [02:56] Discussing how correcting a drifting horizon line can help you with your client networking
• [05:10] How do you shorten your IMU calibration time?
• [06:11] Send you question to Ask Drone You now!

Today’s episode is about the proposal to introduce new hobbyist rules. Section 336 has led to an environment of non compliance. Are the new rules designed to correct this situation?

Vic joins Paul and Rob to discuss the various aspects of Section 344. Section 344 is a proposed set of new hobbyist rules that might replace Section 336. AMA has been vehemently opposing these new rules. Is there any merit in their argument? We discuss why Section 344 is a win-win situation for both the AMA and the FAA.

Will enforcements increase if Section 344 goes through? Will flying become more difficult for hobby pilots? Tune in to find out why the removal of section 336 might in fact do good to the drone industry. Fly Safe!

If you enjoyed listening to this episode, you might want to check out our, “Legalities” playlist on YouTube.

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

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

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

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Get your copy of “Livin’ the Drone Life” – //amzn.to/2nalUDH
Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide – //amzn.to/2omQatT

Timestamps

• [00:33] Today’s episode is about hobbyist rules that have lead to an environment of non compliance in the drone industry
• [01:03] Learn about the proposed Section 344 that might replace Section 336
• [01:59] What is the current status of Section 344?
• [04:09] Is the removal of section 336 a good thing?
• [04:52] Has section 336 taken away the rule-making power from FAA?
• [05:24] Is there any truth to AMA’s argument?
• [06:20] We share some interesting details of Section 344
• [09:54] What will be the role of CBO’s if Section 344 is passed?
• [10:27] Reasons why the 344 is a win-win for the AMA and the FAA
• [13:53] Would enforcements increase if 344 goes through?
• [16:10] Vic’s appeal to AMA
• [16:28] Did AMA help with the drafting of Section 336?
• [17:34] Will a hobbyist need LAANC for flight authorization?
• [18:35] "]Paul sums up today’s episode
• [20:46] Do not forget to share and leave us a review
• [21:38] Check out our 33 exhaustive and awesome courses

With Hurricane Florence about to hit east coast, many drone pilots have been reaching out to us – and inquiring how they can help out. While we appreciate the noble intent, flying your drone in hurricane stricken areas is not permitted unless you have proper authorization.

Rather than getting in touch with the FAA, you need to get authorization from FEMA. Passing the FEMA ICS-100 online test will render you eligible for flying. Click here for step by step instructions for passing your FEMA test. You can also get in touch with DroneBase and Uplift and check if they need your help with any jobs. Contacting Humanitarian Drones is another way of helping out. If you are flying for search & rescue or search & recovery, get in touch with Paul or PJ from TerraVigilis to access a search and rescue software which will help you immensely with your image processing.

Don’t forget to pick up a charger from Colorado Drone Chargers. These guys make high-quality quadchargers to help you maximize your flight time. Use discount code Drone U 8 to get yourself a killer deal!

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

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

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Get your copy of “Livin’ the Drone Life” – //amzn.to/2nalUDH
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Timestamps

• [00:34] Paul shares details of our new Search and Rescue class
• [04:05] Today’s Part 107 Practice Question
• [05:08] Learn about our cool sponsor, Colorado Drone Chargers
• [06:10] Today we discuss how drone pilots can help out with Hurricane Florence disaster relief
• [08:10] Can you self deploy to help out in hurricane stricken areas?
• [08:28] Should you call the FAA if you wish to help out in disaster relief?
• [09:05] Whom can you contact if you wish to help out in disaster relief?
• [10:45] How can drone pilots contact FEMA?
• [11:13] Practical considerations for helping out in disaster relief
• [12:28] How to pass the FEMA ICS-100 online test
• [12:50] Necessary to get basic survival training before you help out in disaster relief
• [13:35] Should you look for ways to help out via DroneBase and Uplift?
• [15:33] Get in touch with Paul or PJ to access a search and rescue software that can help you with image processing
• [17:05] Learn about our forthcoming mapping training with Pix4D and NTSB

Today’s episode is about drone business. Can you build a drone business by simply offering processing services to mapping companies? How do you find clients for such a business?

Our caller, Tyler from Ontario is wondering if there is a market for processing mapping imagery. Would there be mapping companies doing the data acquisition in house, and outsourcing the processing? We touch upon various aspects of drone business such as mapping software and different outsourcing platforms in order to answer his question.

You will discover if learning Pix4D alone with suffice for such a drone business. We also discuss some outsourcing platforms that are your best bets for finding clients.

If you liked this video, you might want to check out our “Drone Mapping” playlist on YouTube. Thanks to Tyler for the question. Fly Safe!

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

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

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

Follow us:
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Get your copy of “Livin’ the Drone Life” – //amzn.to/2nalUDH
Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide – //amzn.to/2omQatT

Timestamps

• [01:18] Today’s question is about processing 3D maps for other mapping companies
• [01:50] "]Can providing just image processing prove to be a viable drone business?
• [03:09] Is Fiverr the right platform for finding clients for your drone business? What upsells can you provide?
• [04:00] Learn about this cool tool through which you can create an interface using mapping images
• [04:37] Will you require a really powerful computer to process maps?
• [07:25] Which other software apart from Pix4D should you learn?
• [09:53] Learn about our forthcoming course on interior and exterior mapping
• [10:30] What is the one thing that DroneDeploy does better than everyone else?
• [11:09] Challenges with using Pix4D for volumetric measurement
• [12:20] Paul sums up today’s episode

Today’s episode is about the Phantom 3. Can you produce accurate 3D maps and models with the Phantom 3? Can you really substitute the Phantom 4 Pro with the Phantom 3?

Our caller, Remy used his Phantom 3 Professional for drone mapping. However, the results were not up to the mark. Can switching to Pix4D from DroneDeploy help Remy?

We discuss if this is a software issue or a sensor issue. You will learn if it is possible to generate accurate survey grade maps using the small GoPro sensor on the Phantom 3. Tune in now. Fly Safe!

If you liked this video, you might want to check out our “Drone Mapping” playlist on YouTube.

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

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

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

Follow us:
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Get your copy of “Livin’ the Drone Life” – //amzn.to/2nalUDH
Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide – //amzn.to/2omQatT

Timestamps

• [01:14] Learn how Drone U can help you clear your recency
• [01:27] Today’s Part 107 practice question
• [04:29] Today’s question is about the Phantom 3
• [05:20] Is Remy facing a software issue or a sensor issue?
• [06:04] Do you need a Phantom 4 Pro to produce accurate drone maps?
• [06:16] Is the Mavic 2 Pro sensor really a Hasselblad? Or is it a Sony?
• [07:12] Learn about our forthcoming mapping class
• [08:11] Will using Pix4D generate better results? Do you really need a better sensor for drone mapping?
• [08:58] Is photogrammetry a science or art?

DJI Phantom 5 Drone in 2019? – The Latest and Most Exciting DJI Rumors, DJI News and Updates

Today’s episode is about the DJI Phantom 5 drone. After the Mavic 2 launch, the one question on everyone’s mind is, “When is the DJI Phantom 5 coming out?”

Our caller, Kevin from Ohio already owns a Spark and Mavic Pro, and is eagerly waiting for the DJI Phantom 5.

DJI has upped the ante significantly with the Mavic 2, and there are various rumors doing the rounds about the soon to be launched DJI Phantom 5. Has DJI really stopped manufacturing the Phantom 4 because they are ramping up their production lines for the DJI Phantom 5 drone? Will the Phantom 5, when launched render the Mavic 2 obsolete? Do we have a definite DJI Phantom 5 release date?

Phantom 5 Cancelled

The wait for a new DJI drone has certainly been an agonizing one for drone enthusiasts. With DJI Phantom 4 Pro discontinued and release of the DJI Spark 2 further pushed back, some hopeful industry observers misread these developments – and presumed that a new Phantom was in the works.

Initial DJI rumors suggested that the DJI Phantom 5 would come with interchangeable lenses. Check our ADU video which we shot when the rumors first surfaced.

However, these assumptions have proven to be totally false. Plans for the DJI Phantom 5 have been cancelled – at least for now.

Industry reports suggest that DJI has shut down their plans for this drone and reassigned the product manager to another project.

What Going On at DJI?

DJI’s stupendous rise from a dorm startup to a $3 billion behemoth made its founder, Frank Wong the world’s first drone billionaire. However, off late, things have not been so rosy for the world’s biggest drone company.

Regular ADU listeners might recall our reporting of the $150 million corporate fraud at DJI. Shortly afterwards, users started experiencing a lack of availability for the Phantom 4 Pro. Ongoing US-China trade wars and data security issues have further exacerbated the Chinese drone manufacturer’s problems.

As of date, even popular drones like the Mavic 2 Pro and Mavic Air are unavailable for purchase on DJI’s online store (unless bought in a drone +controller combo). A while back, the Phantom 4 Advanced was available, albeit for a short while before it got completely sold out.

Yes, it is true that DJI intends to equip all its drones with ADS-B by January 2020. But, to halt production in mid-2019, five months prior does not seem logical.

Meanwhile, American drone manufacturer, Skydio is set to come out with the all-new Skydio R2 drone. Some industry analysts expect this drone to give the Mavic a run for its money. Will DJI manage to get its act together? Only time will tell.

Watch this space for the latest and most exciting updates!

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

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

Follow us:
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Get your copy of “Livin’ the Drone Life” – //amzn.to/2nalUDH
Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide – //amzn.to/2omQatT

Timestamps

• [01:00] Learn how you can access 33 exhaustive Drone U courses for just $1
• [01:36] Today’s question is about the Phantom 5
• [02:32] What is the DJI Phantom 5 release date?
• [04:18] Has DJI stopped manufacturing the Phantom 4 Pro?
• [05:13] What are the rumors pertaining to the DJI Phantom 5 drone?
• [05:51] Which is the best selling DJI drone?
• [07:55] Will the DJI Phantom 5 drone be waterproof?
• [09:52] Will the Phantom 5 be a great drone for mapping?
• [10:12] Paul shares how he built his drone business with a Phantom
• [11:15] Learn about our forthcoming search and rescue course
• [11:48] Factors that can help you get sub 2 inch survey grade accuracy in UAV mapping

Today’s question is about renting airspace authorizations. Are there any issues with renting airspace authorization from a fellow drone pilot? How can you expedite this process?

Our caller, John from Oklahoma tried to get his airspace authorization via LAANC. But was unable to do so. Can he rent an airspace authorization from a fellow drone pilot? Does FAA allow this “give and take” of airspace authorizations?

We discuss the various issues surrounding airspace authorizations, and discuss the steps you can take to overcome them. You will also learn how Drone U can help you expedite the whole process. Watch out for some interesting information about our forthcoming courses.  Thanks to John for the great question. Fly Safe!

If you liked this video, you might want to check out our “Flight Approval” playlist on YouTube.

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

Don’t forget to pick up a charger from Colorado Drone Chargers. These guys make high-quality quadchargers to help you maximize your flight time. Use discount code Drone U 8 to get yourself a killer deal!

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

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

Follow us:
Site – https://thedroneu.com/
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Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/
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Get your copy of “Livin’ the Drone Life” – //amzn.to/2nalUDH
Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide – //amzn.to/2omQatT

Timestamps

• [00:37] Learn about our exhaustive Part 107 training which can help you clear your recency test
• [01:32] Today’s Part 107 Practice Question
• [05:11] Discussing FAA’s new statement at Interdrone
• [05:54] Learn about our cool sponsor, Colorado Drone Chargers
• [06:44] Today’s question is about renting airspace authorizations
• [08:27] Discussing the growing popularity of renting airspace authorizations
• [09:21] How can Drone U help you rent authorizations?
• [09:46] Does FAA allow you you to rent airspace authorizations from another drone pilot?
• [10:01] Recounting the David Boggs episode
• [10:33] Does experience count when applying for airspace authorization? What is FAA’s take on this?
• [11:41] What is the biggest issue with renting out authorizations? Learn how you can overcome it
• [14:15] Does it make sense to file for authorizations at all airports close to you?
• [15:04] How can you use airspace authorization on a recurrent basis?
• [15:24] Should you make a contractual arrangement while renting airspace authorization? Will a verbal arrangement suffice?
• [17:01] How can you expedite the process of availing airspace authorizations? Discussing the importance of cultivating good relationships with ATC officials
• [20:22] If you liked what you heard, please leave us a review
• [20:48] Learn about our forthcoming courses

Today’s episode is about sharing a drone’s live feed with a client. How do you deal with curious clients who wish to monitor your work? We discuss the various alternatives.

Our caller, Greg is at a loss on how to deal with an intrusive client. Clients are prone to curiosity, and often they like to keep tabs on what is going on. How do you deal with such clients? We suggests ways via which the client can view the live feed without being intrusive.

Tune in for some great HACKS which are sure to increase your productivity. Fly Safe!

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

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

Follow us:
Site – https://thedroneu.com/
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Get your copy of “Livin’ the Drone Life” – //amzn.to/2nalUDH
Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide – //amzn.to/2omQatT

Timestamps

• [00:46] Today’s Part 107 Practice Question
• [02:41] Today’s we discuss the various alternatives for sharing your live feed with your client
• [03:43] How does Paul deal with curious clients?
• [04:25] Tips for preparing yourself to work in high pressure situations
• [04:53] Discussing the various options to share your live feed
• [06:56] Is it a good idea for a drone pilot to use DJI Goggles?