A few weeks ago, we talked about obtaining a night waiver from the FAA.  Specifically, we offered some advice on getting a waiver to fly at night if you don’t know the specific details of the operation.

At the time, it was relatively easy to obtain a waiver from the FAA (even without details like the specific drone or location).  However, some things have changed.  Obtaining a daytime waiver to fly at night has become a more detailed process.  Now, the portal asks you to be more specific in your request.

Take a look at the updated portal and enjoy the episode.  Fly safe!

Don’t forget to enter the Drone U Giveaway.  One lucky person is going to receive a Mavic Pro!

Also, the folks over at Energen are offering a special discount on their amazing portable chargers for all Drone U members.  Use one the following promo codes at checkout, depending on which battery you buy, to get a great deal on a killer battery:

Energen A40 Model:  DRONEUA40

Energen M10 Model:  DRONEU M10

Energen P40 Mode:  DRONEU P40

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

• [03:42] Today’s question is about applying for a daytime waiver to fly at night
• [05:16] Discussing the updated portal for obtaining the new daytime waiver
• [07:27] Do you need to be more specific while applying for a daytime waiver?

Today, we talk about drone jobs in real estate.  Specifically, we discuss how to contact the right person at the real estate company.  Furthermore, we provide some advice on pitching your services.  After all, when trying to get drone jobs in real estate, you’ll want to make sure you go about it the right way.  Luckily, we have a few real estate experts here at Drone U that know how realtors think, where they gather and what you can do to sell your drone services.  If you’re a drone pilot trying to get real estate jobs, you won’t want to miss this episode.  Fly safe!

Don’t forget, our friends at Videoblocks are currently offering a “Triple Bundle” package, which gives you full-access to copyright-free video, audio and images for only $149 per year!  Make sure to check them out!

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

• [01:53] Paul shares details about forthcoming Drone U courses
• [03:12] Today we talk about drone jobs in real estate
• [04:35] Selling drone services by contacting mortgage companies and co-sponsoring realtor tours
• [05:37] "]Focusing on high profit, low maintenance areas for maximized returns
• [08:40] Marketing strategy and promotional material to land a real estate job
• [09:34] Approaching title companies to sell drone services in real estate
• [09:58] Building relationships to sell drone services to a real estate company
• [10:28] Could you land a drone job at a real estate party?

DJI X7 – Pros & Cons

Today, we discuss the DJI X7 and its potential for mapping and modeling. What are the benefits of using DJI X7? And which drones are compatible with this camera?

Being that the DJI X7 is equipped with a larger imaging sensor, has better dynamic range and can be paired with a variety of lenses, it appears that the camera will be useful for mapping and modeling.  Although it only shoots 2400 megapixels, the camera will provide much better maps than other cameras.  Additionally, the DJI X7 can fly on an existing Inspire 2, a M200 series, or a number of other DJI drones.

There are, however, a few caveats to the X7 (tune in to find out).  Overall, however, we’re excited to get our hands on one.  Fly safe!

Also, the folks over at Energen are offering a special discount on their amazing portable chargers for all Drone U members.  Use one the following promo codes at checkout, depending on which battery you buy, to get a great deal on a killer battery:

Energen A40 Model:  DRONEUA40

Energen M10 Model:  DRONEU M10

Energen P40 Mode:  DRONEU P40

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

• [02:26] Today, we discuss the DJI X7 and its potential for mapping and modeling
• [03:31] Specs and Capabilities of DJI X7
• [04:02] Learn how using the DJI X7 will generate superior mapping results
• [05:10] Can you build a drone that does not have a DJI “brain” but that uses an X7?
• [05:42] Dealing with data security while using DJI products
• [06:09] Which are some of the flight controllers that can be paired with DJI cameras?
• [07:10] Importance of ground control points for greater relative accuracy
• [09:10] "]Taking up mapping jobs in winter to make up for the loss of other jobs

Unfortunately, we’ve got some bad news.  In case you havn’t heard, the president just signed off on the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).  Essentially, this bill undermines the work of John Taylor and reinstates mandatory drone registration.  In the past, the FAA’s regulations stated that any drone weighing 5.5 lbs or more needed to be registered.  However, the NDAA now requires registration of any drone flying in federal airspace, no matter the size.  

Today, we talk about what the National Defense Authorization Act, what it means for pilots and where it could go in the future.  Additionally, we talk about how it could interact with Aeroscope and have a huge effect on privacy.  We’re looking forward to watching how this all plays out.  Fly safe!

Don’t forget, our friends at Videoblocks are currently offering a “Triple Bundle” package, which gives you full-access to copyright-free video, audio and images for only $149 per year!  Make sure to check them out!

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

• [05:20] Today, we discuss the National Defense Authorization Act
• [06:18] In light of recent developments, is it again compulsory to get your drone registered?
• [07:12] Discussing the rationale behind introducing the National Defense Authorization Act
• [09:28] Are there any new requirements for drone registration?
• [11:12] What does compulsory drone registration mean for a system like Aeroscope? Are there greater chances of your privacy being compromised?

Flying Indoors without a Drone License

Today, we talk about flying indoors without a Part 107.  We received a call from a pilot who wanted to know if it were legal for him to make money from indoor footage filmed without a license.

In short, the answer is yes.  You can, in fact, make money off of indoor footage without being a licensed pilot.  Because interiors are not navigable airspace, they are not maintained, controlled or regulated by the FAA.

However, you may face certain problems while flying your drone indoors.  For example, you’ll need to make sure that GPS mode is turned off to avoid magnetic interference.  Additionally, you may want to buy some prop guards or cages to protect your drone.  Ultimately, there are some precautions you’ll want to take but flying commercially indoors without a Part 107 is completely legal.  Thanks for the question.  Fly safe!

In case you’re curious, the Star Wars drone we mentioned is available here:  //amzn.to/2l67aHb

Also, the folks over at Energen are offering a special discount on their amazing portable chargers for all Drone U members.  Use one the following promo codes at checkout, depending on which battery you buy, to get a great deal on a killer battery:

Energen A40 Model:  DRONEUA40

Energen M10 Model:  DRONEU M10

Energen P40 Mode:  DRONEU P40

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

• [02:50] Today, we talk about flying indoors without a Part 107
• [03:08] Paul answers today’s question
• [04:25] What are some of the issues that you will face while flying inside?
• [05:15] Learn why it is important to set your return your home altitude while flying inside
• [05:44] Precautions to be observed while flying inside
• [06:10] We talk about the wisdom of practicing indoors with cheaper, micro-drones

Flying in Class B Airspace

Recently, we’ve put out a bunch of content about instant airspace authorization.  While many pilots have successfully used LAANC to obtain instant authorization, we hear from many people who are doubtful.  Oftentimes, they want to know if this is a legitimate way to obtain airspace authorization.

Today, we received a call from a pilot in Boston who asked if we’ve had any luck obtaining authorization for Class B Airspace.  While there are some nuances to the application, we do know people who’ve been able to do so.  In order to help our caller and anyone else looking to fly in Class B airspace, we talk a bit about the application process.  Overall, the process outlined in this video should help you get permission to fly.  Keep the questions coming!  Fly safe!

Don’t forget, our friends at Videoblocks are currently offering a “Triple Bundle” package, which gives you full-access to copyright-free video, audio and images for only $149 per year!  Make sure to check them out!

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

• [01:57] Today’s question is about obtaining instant authorization in Class B airspace
• [02:42] Paul suggests watching Drone U’s YouTube video providing a step by step guide on how to avail airspace authorizations
• [04:17] Will the forthcoming LAANC system help achieve faster authorizations?
• [05:32] Can you encounter errors in UASFM maps?

Drone Life Expectancy

Today, we talk about drone life expectancy.  How long is your drone going to last you?  Tom called in from California to ask how long he should expect his drone to last.

We all know that drones don’t last forever.  However, you’re going to have to replace certain drones more frequently than others.  For example, an Inspire 1 has a longer drone life expectancy than the Phantom.  Phantoms tend to fly for around 800 hours.  Afterwards, it’s going to need some repairs.  Your motor, gimbal, and other parts will eventually start to give out and you’ll need to replace it.  

In order to help drone entrepreneurs prepare for the future, we talk about being realistic about your drone life expectancy and give some advice on budgeting for equipment.  Hope you enjoy!  Fly safe!

Also, the folks over at Energen are offering a special discount on their amazing portable chargers for all Drone U members.  Use one the following promo codes at checkout, depending on which battery you buy, to get a great deal on a killer battery:

Energen A40 Model:  DRONEUA40

Energen M10 Model:  DRONEU M10

Energen P40 Mode:  DRONEU P40

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

• [06:23] Does drone life expectancy of different drone models vary quite a bit?
• [07:04] Does your flying frequency drastically affect the drone life expectancy?
• [07:49] How long can you expect your Phantom and Inspire to last?
• [08:33] Typically when will you need to replace the motors on your Inspire?
• [08:55] Is it wise to place for a new drone purchase every single year?
• [10:41] How much can you expect to spend every year after drone accessories?
• [11:08] Find out how amortizing your expenses can save you money every year

What do I need to know about RTK?

Today, we talk about using Real Time Kinematics, otherwise known as RTK. Can you do away with GCP’s if you are using RTK drone mapping?

Because Mike has heard us mention RTK a few times, he from California to ask for some information.  Specifically, he wants to know if he can use RTK instead of having to lay out Ground Control Points (GCP).

In order to help Mike, we go pretty deep into the details both RTK and GCP.  Because drone pilots in the construction industry work heavily with both of these technologies, we think that this episode should be extremely useful.

Thanks for the question Mike!  Fly safe!

P.S – Our friends at Videoblocks are currently offering a “Triple Bundle” package, which gives you full-access to copyright-free video, audio and images for only $149 per year!  Make sure to check them out!

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/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneu
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

• [00:55]Paul and Rob share information about the new Drone U courses
• [01:49] Today, we talk about RTK drone mapping
• [06:20] Defining Ground Control Points (GCP) and listing their benefits
• [07:13] Will RTK drone mapping result in more accurate data?
• [07:52] Discussing how using Ground Control Points result in more accurate elevation data
• [09:53] What is the the drawback using Trimble GPS data?
• [10:04] What is the cost of drone props?
• [10:54] We discuss how you can do progression modeling and build a time lapse model
• [11:41] Learn how the Litchi App can come handy while on a mapping mission
• [13:47] Is the Yuneec 520 better suited for creating hyper lapse models compared to the Phantom?
• [14:44] Is the Yuneec 520 better at processing JPEG images?
• [15:23] Is the Phantom 4 Pro better suited for mapping compared to the Phantom 4 Advanced?

Today, we talk about preparing for a system failure.  After all, you never know when you might find yourself in the middle of an emergency landing.

In order to prepare yourself for an emergency landing, you’ll need to understand the proper protocols.  For example, you may have to land your drone in a tree during a system failure.  This will minimize the damage to your drone and prevent you from harming anyone around you.  Therefore, it is important to learn when and how to land your drone safely during an emergency.  You don’t want to miss this episode!

Thanks to Devin in New York for the question!  Fly safe!

Also, the folks over at Energen are offering a special discount on their amazing portable chargers for all Drone U members.  Use one the following promo codes at checkout, depending on which battery you buy, to get a great deal on a killer battery:

Energen A40 Model:  DRONEUA40

Energen M10 Model:  DRONEU M10

Energen P40 Mode:  DRONEU P40

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/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneu
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

• [04:07]Today, we talk about preparing for a system failure
• [05:36] Discussing some pre-flight battery tests for preventing a system failure
• [06:02] What is a recommended emergency maneuver if you hit a tree but don’t crash?
• [06:46] What should you do if you lose control of your drone?
• [07:55] How can you bring your drone home if you are experiencing excessive GPS interference?
• [09:52] What is an emergency procedure that you should follow if you are flying with landing gear?

Originally Aired: Wednesday, November 29, 2017 at 7 pm EST

In this informative webinar, Paul covers quite a few topics related to removing firmware limitations for the Phantom 4 Pro, Mavic Pro, and Inspire 2. This includes adding attitude mode to a Mavic Pro, changing wind warnings, increasing the speed of GPS mode, and much, much more. So if you’re wanting some tips & tricks on how to hack your DJI drone(s) then this will be an exciting webinar for you to check out now.