ADU 0673: Which drone lights should I use when flying at night?

October 17, 2017 by narinder

Drone Lights at Night

It can be difficult to find a drone lights at night that meets the FAA’s standards. After all, the FAA requires any drone flying during twilight to be equipped with a drone light that can be seen from three miles away.

Today, we talk to Isaiah from Minnesota. He recently received his Part 107 and wants to know our drone light recommendations. Luckily, we recently found the PicoMax by Aveo Engineering. We discuss the benefits of the PicoMax and why it’s the best light for flying during twilight.

Congrats on the 107 Isaiah! Fly safe!

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Timestamps

[02:40] Today;s show is about drone lights at night; we talk about nighttime operations and the difficulty of finding the right drone light that meets FAA standards
[03:30] Paul reviews PicoMax by Aveo engineering; we talk dimensions, capabilities and pricing
[04:27] Is it important to be able see your drone light from the ground?
[06:11] Are there cheaper drone lights that meet FAA guidelines?

Tags: drone, equipment, FAA, flying at night, laws, multirotor, night, nighttime, part 107, picomax, product, quadcopter, Regulations, reviews, rules, Safety, twilight, uav, vic moss

ADU 0671: I’m a Part 107-certified police officer. Does my agency need a COA?

October 16, 2017 by narinder

We often get questions about COAs for police officers and firefighters. As someone working in public safety, how do you obtain a COA? Does your department need one if already have a Part 107?

Because COAs can be somewhat confusing, we explain how they work. There are a few variations on the COA. Each one applies to different pilots in different circumstances. If you’re wondering which COA your public safety agency needs, listen up!

Also, we’ll be offering drone training for public safety in the near future. Keep an eye out and fly safe!

This episode is sponsored by Videoblocks. If you need stock footage for your videos, make sure to check them out.

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Timestamps

[01:53] Paul provides some information about the forthcoming Drone U classes
[03:47] Today’s question is about COA’s for public safety officers and firefighters
[04:49] Paul discusses the different ways through which public safety officers can carry out public operations
[05:14] We discuss the various details of public COA’s and benefits of getting the same
[06:11] Is self certification possible if your agency has a public COA?
[06:49] Paul shares some details about the forthcoming Drone U course on public safety
[07:17] What are the benefits of flying under civil or part 107?
[08:35] Which are the different laws that govern different types of operations?
[09:17] What are the public aircraft requirements under different laws?
[11:00] What are some of the benefits of public COA’s over civil or Part 107?
[12:20] Discussing the need for a law agency to avail a COA in spite of having Part 107 certified pilots
[13:00] What are some of the rigorous maintenance and medical standards that you need to maintain if you are planing on getting a COA?
[14:27] How long are the COA’s good for? Is it possible to get extensions?
[17:20] What is a drawback of flying under a public COA over part 107?
[18:05] Learn how lawmakers can deal with restrictions on their drones by getting a Crystal Sky monitor; Paul provides details of the forthcoming webinar which will deal with this topic

Tags: agency, blanket coa, coa, cops, drone, FAA, fire, firefighter, multirotor, part 107, police, public coa, public safety, quadcopter, Safety, training, uav

BONUS EPISODE: Waivers for flying over people (with Vic Moss)

October 13, 2017 by narinder

Recently, we got our hands on some documents that suggest the FAA might have some exciting news. Soon, it may be possible to apply for a waiver to grants permission to fly over people. Currently, the FAA Part 107.39 regulation prohibits any drone pilot from operating over human beings.

At the moment, we don’t know what the waiver application process will look like. However, this document outlines which drones will qualify for a waiver to fly over people. Today, we discuss the types of drones listed by the FAA and talk about the effects this could have in the drone industry.

Thanks for listening and for your continued support! Fly safe!

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Get access to the Virginia Tech Study – https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10439-017-1921-6

Timestamps

[00:36] Today we discuss an exciting development which might soon make it possible to apply for a waiver to fly over people
[01:13] Paul reads out excerpts from the FAA document which details what you need to do in order to get a waiver to fly over people
[03:15] Which are the five categories for which you can get waivers to fly over people?
[03:32] What are the details of the First category waiver? We discuss the possibility of a home-built drone satisfying the requirements of Category One
[06:25] We go over the requirements of a Category Two waiver
[06:58] Will you need prop cages instead of prop cages in order to get a waiver?
[07:35] We attempt to explain the meaning of “transferring 11 foot pounds of kinetic energy to a human being”
[07:57] Paul and Vic discuss the Virginia Tech Study: “Ranges of Injury Risk Associated with Impact from Unmanned Aircraft Systems”
[09:19] Would a Mavic Pro with prop cages meet the requirements of category B?
[10:43] What are the requirements for getting a waiver under Category C? Can you fly over concert venues under this category?
[13:29] Would a Phantom meet the requirements of a Category C waiver?
[15:50] We debate the inclusion of “enhanced aeronautical knowledge and experience”, a requirement for Category C
[18:54] Vic explains why he is against have a practical test for Part 107
[19:31] Would you need a Visual observer if you get a waiver under Category C?
[20:13] Discussing the permissiblity of drones to fly over motion picture sets and the abolishment of Motion Picture And Television Flight Operations Manual (MPTOM)
[20:48] Discussing the possibility of filming “sports or live entertainment events where the public is already restricted from operational areas”
[21:13] Reading out excerpts of Category Four and discussing it’s requirements
[23:09] Discussing the possibility that drone manufacturer’s will come up with self-certified drones which fulfill the requirements of a waiver
[24:50] Interpreting the exemptions under Part 107.39; we discuss the possibility of flying over people in emergency situations
[27:13] We read out the instances where the exemptions under Part 107.39 will apply
[29:00] Are waivers for flying over people kicking in anytime soon? We discuss the likelihood of these coming into force by the end of the year
[32:26] Would it be possible to get a Category 1 waiver for a DJI Spark, and hence fly over people?
[35:59] Paul shares details for Vic’s forthcoming Photography classes; do not forget to check out the amazing “Light painting class”

Tags: 107.39, airspace authorization, bonus, drone, flying over humans, flying over people, Law, part 107, Regulations, vic moss, waivers

ADU 0670: Is Hunting with Drone Legally Allowed?

October 11, 2017 by narinder

Hunting with Drone – Is it Legally and Morally Correct?

Can drones legally be used to help hunters find game? Is using drones for hunting morally sound? Could a commercial drone pilot work as a hunting spotter? Today, we have a heavy conversation around drones and hunting.

Bill calls in from PA to ask about drones and hunting. As a commercial drone pilot, Bill wants to know if he could make money flying drones for hunters. This sparks an interesting debate between Paul and Rob. While thermal cameras could be used for this purpose, is it ethical?

To answer the question, we discuss different ways that drones and thermal mapping could be used to help hunters. We talk about the ways that drone technology might offer benefits for hunting range owners, as well.

Thanks for asking such a good question Bill! Fly safe!

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Timestamps

[02:33] Today we discuss the legal implications and debate the moral correctness of hunting with drone
[03:53] What are laws in the state of New Mexico with regards to using drones to find game for hunting? We discuss laws in different states as well
[04:50] Can drones be used to create visual maps which provide a count of game on the property?
[06:03] Learn how the combined thermal plus IR capabilities offered by the CGOET camera in the Yuneec H520 renders it apt for creating thermal maps
[07:52] Discussing the moral soundness of using drones to aid hunters
[10:53] Debating moral correctness and difference, if any between using a FLIR Vue Pro strapped to a gun and to a drone
[13:04] What does Part 107 say about hunting with drone
[13:50] Is there a federal law which prevents hunting with drone? Do you need a permit to hunt on BLM land or national forest land?
[17:03] Would it be okay to scout game and hunt at a later stage?

Tags: animals, Business, commercial, drone, ethics, FAA, hunting, make money, mapping, multirotor, quadcopter, Safety, technology, thermal, uav

ADU 0669: Should I buy a Yuneec drone?

October 10, 2017 by narinder

Yuneec Drones are a great alternative to the DJI Phantom 4. Many drone pilots find that Yuneec drones offer capabilities not found in DJI’s machines. However, we are often asked by pilots if Yuneec drones are really comparable to drones like the Phantom 4.

Today, we take a question from Pavlov in Greece. Pavlov wants to know if we would recommend buying a Yuneec drone. In order to answer Pavlov’s question, we discuss the pros and cons of the Yuneec H520 and some other models. Additionally, we talk about the benefits of Yuneec drones for mapping and how Yuneec products present a challenge the the industry titan that is DJI.

Thanks for the question, Pavlov! Fly safe!

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

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

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

Timestamps

[02:09] Paul shares some information about Drone U’s forthcoming “Light Painting” class
[05:53] Today’s question revolves around Yuneec drones and how they compare to DJI drones
[07:47] "]Paul reviews the Yuneec Typhoon H520 and explains why it is far better than other Yuneec drones; we discuss size, flight times and applications
[10:11] How does the Yueneec H520 sensor compare to the Phantom 4 Pro?
[10:22] Can you use Yuneec drones for mapping?
[10:32] Can you land the Yuneec Typhoon H520 if you lose a blade?
[11:42] Learn how the replaceable batteries in the Yuneec Typhoon H520 can prove to be really advantageous
[11:58] How does the effective range of the Yuneec Typhoon H520 compare with that of the Phantom 4 Pro?
[13:32] How do the noise levels of the Yuneec Typhoon H520 compare to other DJI drones?
[15:04] How does the Yuneec H520 compare with the Phantom 4 Pro in terms of agility?
[16:28] Can you use Yuneec drones for subject tracking?
[16:37] How does the Yuneec H520 score in terms of stability?
[17:03] Are Yuneec drones free of geo-fencing?
[18:12] Learn why firmware updates in the Phantom 4 Pro are a tricky issue; find out how Yuneec H520 owners are at an advantage
[19:20] Paul shares pricing information for the Yuneec H520
[20:50] What are some of the ideal applications for the Yuneec H520? Learn about some of the advantages of using DataPilot, the custom Yuneec software
[25:29] Learn how the enhanced camera abilities of the Yuneec H520 can result in multiple advantages
[26:30] Can you download third party apps on the Yuneec remote?
[30:01] Paul lists some of the shortfalls with the DJI platform when compared to Yuneec; we discuss firmware updates, geofencing, flight times, camera control

Tags: DJI, drone, equipment, FAA, h520, mapping, multirotor, phantom 4, product, quadcopter, review, Safety, uav, yuneec

ADU 0668: How can golf courses utilize drones?

October 9, 2017 by narinder

Flying a Drone in a Golfing Range

As mapping technology becomes more advanced, the potential uses of drones for golf courses only increases. While some golf courses have used drones and drone pilots to shoot aerial photographs for advertising purposes, this is only the tip of the iceberg. There are far more sophisticated ways for golf courses to use drones. In fact, mapping and 3D modeling could potentially revolutionize the age-old game of golf.

On today’s episode, we take a question from Brian. Brian wants to know what kinds of drone services he can offer golf courses and how to market a drone business. While we discuss marketing and pricing, we spend much of this episode talking about the potential ways that golf courses can use drones and mapping technologies. There are so many opportunities! If you’re a drone pilot looking to work with a golf course, you won’t want to miss this episode!

Thanks for the question Brian! Fly safe!

The SketchFab models we refer to can be viewed here and here.

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Timestamps

[05:41] Today’s question is about the potential for golf courses to utilize drones
[07:00] Learning to adopt the right attitude while marketing your services
[07:30] Understanding the importance of having marketing material to sell your services to golf courses
[08:10] Which are the different services that you can potentially offer to golf courses? How can you provide greater value add?
[09:52] Which cameras should you ideally use while doing interactive mapping?
[10:29] Tips and tricks to create interactive maps for golf courses using Sketchfab
[12:43] What is the hardest part when marketing your drone services to golf courses?
[13:36] Should you include mapping elements in your golf course drone footage?
[16:16] Is it a good idea to go door-to-door to market your services?
[17:24] Should you price your services by the hole?
[17:56] Paul plays a demo reel
[19:46] Pros and cons of using SketchFab
[22:08] Learn to use the right language to market your services effectively to golf courses
[22:56] Learn how Drone U can help you master mapping and create interactive models and maps

Tags: Business, drone, FAA, flying a drone in a golfing range, golf, golf course, golf course drone footage, golf course drone video, mapping, marketing, models, multirotor, pricing, quadcopter, Safety, uav

ADU 0667: How should I start editing drone videos?

October 6, 2017 by narinder

If you’re a professional drone pilot, you’ll need some editing skills. This can be very intimidating for those pilots that have never edited video before.

Today, we take a question from Josh in Kentucky. Josh is a new drone entrepreneur and wants to know how to get started editing his videos. We talk about editing drone videos and give some tips on the best editing software. Additionally, we discuss why hiring an editor may be the best approach to take.

Congrats on making the leap, Josh! Fly safe!

If you need stock footage for your videos, make sure to check out Videoblocks.

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

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

Timestamps

[03:20] Today’s question is about the different ways through which you can develop your editing skills
[05:20] Should you consider hiring someone to edit your videos?
[06:04] Learn how increased flexibility has made editing much easier
[06:32] Learn why it is advisable to start off with a cheaper, alternative editing tool before opting for a premium one
[07:04] Is it cheaper to use Final Cut Pro over Premier Pro?
[07:51] Is mastering video editing a time consuming process?
[09:18] Paul shares some information about Drone U’s upcoming class on Adobe and Final Cut Pro
[09:24] Some tips and tricks to make editing less troublesome
[09:51] Find out how you can edit 4K footage on your 2013 5K iMac with a i4 quad-core processor

Tags: advice, drone, Editing, editing drone videos, editor, FAA, multirotor, Photography, quadcopter, Safety, software, tips, uav, video

Can I use a thermal camera with the inspire 2?

ADU 0666: Can I buy a thermal camera for my Inspire 2?

October 5, 2017 by narinder

Inspire 2 Camera for Thermal Imaging

Today, we have an episode about the Inspire 2 and its compatibility with thermal cameras. If you’re a drone pilot looking start mapping, you’ll need to know which equipment to buy and how to properly use it.

We take a call from Nir in Georgia, who wants to know which thermal camera or zoom camera is compatible with his Inspire 2. While there aren’t as many thermal camera options for the Inspire 2 as some other drones, there are definitely some products out there. We discuss which thermal cameras and zoom cameras work best with the Inspire 2. In addition, we talk about the hardware and batteries you’ll need to get your thermal camera off the ground. Thanks for the question Nir! Fly safe!

Drone U Landing Pads are now available!

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

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

Timestamp

[02:11] Do not forget to check out our forthcoming podcast this week on FAA’s new guidelines on flying over people
[07:39] Today’s question is about the Inspire 2 cameras – FLIR XT, FLIR Vue Pro and Z30
[09:41] Does the higher stability of the camera sensor in the Inspire 2 get you better shots when compared to a Phantom 4 Pro?
[10:30] Learn how the motor mounts glued on the Inspire 2 are causing severe problems
[11:02] Is there a chance of debris flying into your Inspire 2 motors? How can you clean it up?
[12:44] Which is the best thermal camera for the Inspire 2?
[12:56] DJI Inspire 2 – FLIR Combo – Should you opt for the more expensive FLIR XT? Is FLIR Vue Pro a good option?
[13:48] Which batteries should you get for your DJI Matrice M210 if you need greater zoom and thermal capabilities?
[15:25] What are the benefits of using the Inspire 2 camera, Z30?
[15:49] Is it always necessary to fly a dual payload if you need zoom and thermal capabilities? Is there a workaround?
[17:18] Learn why it is necessary to master buttery smooth moment when using the Inspire 2 camera, Z30

Tags: Batteries, camera, drone, equipment, FAA, fleer, inspire, inspire 2, mapping, multirotor, quadcopter, Safety, thermal, uav, zoom

BONUS EPISODE: Can you fly under another pilot’s airspace authorization?

October 3, 2017 by narinder

We have a great bonus episode about sharing airspace authorizations today. We all know that it’s a bummer to wait 90+ days for an airspace authorization. How can you fly in controlled airspace when you have less than 3 months notice?

Today, we discuss how to fly under another pilot’s airspace authorization. What are the rules you need to follow when sharing authorizations? How can you find other authorizations to share? We hope you all enjoy this special episode! Fly safe!

Get your drone and business related questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.

Please do us a huge favor, “Like” this video and “Subscribe” to our channel.

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Timestamps

[00:23] Today’s topic revolves around getting authorization to fly in controlled airspace on short notice
[00:39] Paul welcomes Vic to the show
[01:38] Learn how Drone U can help you find airspace authorizations
[02:22] When you rent an airspace authorization, does the responsible pilot need to be with you while you are flying?
[04:02] Vic reads out the email that he sent out to FAA
[05:46] Vic explains the complexities involved with renting out airspace authorizations
[06:52] What can you expect to pay for renting out an airspace authorization?
[09:16] As the responsible pilot, will the FAA come after you if something goes wrong? Do you have a chance of losing your authorization?

Tags: 2017, airspace, airspace authorization, bonus, chargers, does a pilot in command need to be on site for airspace authorizations, drone, how drone pilots can use other airspace authorizations, how to find airspace authorization, Law, Regulations

ADU 0665: How lucrative is the drone mapping business?

October 2, 2017 by narinder

Drone Mapping | How Lucrative is Drone Business?

How Lucrative is Drone Business and particularly, the drone mapping business. Should you buy a LiDAR drone in order to gain a competitive edge in the market?

On today’s episode, we talk about making (and spending) money when starting a drone mapping business. Ryan, a recent Part 107 recipient, calls in to ask us a few questions about the drone mapping business. Can you make money mapping? Does the drone mapping business cost a lot to get started in? Can you compete in the drone industry if you don’t offer multispectral or hyperspectral LIDAR imaging services?

First, we talk about the cost of the equipment you’ll need to get into the mapping industry. While tools like LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensors are quite expensive, they can be extremely valuable to clients across many industries.

Next, we discuss the practical applications of equipment like LIDAR sensors. For those of you who are planning to invest in mapping sensors for your business, we make some recommendations about the best stuff to buy.

Thanks for the question, Ryan! Congrats on the Part 107! Fly safe!

If you need stock footage for your drone videos, make sure to check out Videoblocks.

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

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

Timestamps

[04:19] Today’s question: How lucrative is drone business
[05:12] What kind of investment are you looking at if you are planning on venturing into the drone mapping business?
[05:43] Discussing the significant capabilities and varied applications of Lidar sensor
[06:15] How much can you potentially charge in the drone mapping business?
[06:40] Which is a recommended fixed wing drone ideal for drone mapping?
[06:56] Understanding the functioning of multi spectral sensors and their various applications
[08:07] Learn why the end-to-end solution offered by Precision Hawk renders it apt for agriculture, mining or oil discovery
[10:02] Discussing the terrific capabilities of hyper-spectral sensors
[12:09] What are some considerations that you need to bear in mind while selecting a drone for offshore oil exploration?
[13:00] Why are Lidar sensors, and not stereoscopic sensors used in driver-less cars?
[13:32] Learn how you can use the RP Lidar sensor with your drone