Remote Pilot Association

The topic of the environment can be polarizing but I think we can all agree from a general perspective there are practical ways to preserve the Earth for future generations and drones can be part of the solution. These cutting-edge technologies are revolutionizing the field of environmental monitoring and research. Among these innovations, drones have emerged as powerful tools in the hands of experienced environmental drone pilots. Offering unparalleled access, versatility, and efficiency, drones are transforming the way we collect data, analyze ecosystems, and address environmental challenges. In this article, we explore the numerous benefits of using drones for environmental monitoring and research, underscoring their potential to enhance our understanding and conservation efforts. Source: Remote Pilot Association (TC Freeman) 1. Unparalleled Access: Drones grant researchers unprecedented access to remote and inaccessible areas, revolutionizing the way data is collected. From dense f

Mirror mirror on the wall, who’s the fairest of them all? Yes, we have all seen those people that take selfies then realize they have an audience. Some are embarrassed, some give you a look as if to say, “why are you looking at me?”     The natural progression from cell phone selfies is with drones, in fact, there’s a drone for sale dubbed the “selfie drone.” In all honestly, I’m guilty of the occasional cell phone selfie, typically when nobody is available to take my photo near a neat backdrop.  I fall more into the embarrassed category when caught in the act because it seems a little egotistical IMHO. As far as drone selfies, guilty there as well, but it’s usually for a good reason, but “heck to the no” if I’m going to let someone else fly my drone (this is a joke, our flight training clients fly our drones most of the time).    Source: Remote Pilot Association (TC Freeman) The Shot List   What are you trying to accomplish? Just for fun is an acceptable answer and can lead to some cr

Welcome to drone flying new drone pilots, you have embarked on an exciting journey no matter what type of drone flying you want to do such as, recreational RC park flying, start an aerial photography/videography business, or First Person View (FPV) racing, just to name a few. The world of drone flying in the US is changing dramatically this year with respect to the regulatory scene. In this article we offer 10 tips, mostly flying tips, for new drone pilots.   Source: Gary Rosson, Earth View Drone Imaging The later part of the article we will discuss the regulatory side of the equation. Let’s jump in feet first with the Top 10 Tips: 1. Consider hiring a flight instructor or searching out a mentor  to learn the basics. One of my best customers said upon our first lesson, “I would rather crash your drone than mine.” It took me a minute to get over this barb, but a selling point is a selling point. In all seriousness, in addition to being under the watchful eye of an instructor or mentor h

Here’s a situation we all have had at one point, ordering something online, like a drone for instance, and realizing that it didn’t come with all the accessories needed for an enjoyable experience. It’s back to the computer to order more stuff. The most common scenario is not having but one battery with which to go flying, now that gets under my skin. Good retail outlets suggest up sells that are popular. Some manufacturers have special upgrades, such as the DJI “Fly More” package, that include extra batteries, tablet holders and carrying case. Putting together your own package is doable if you want to save money, just compare the deluxe package to the basic offer. We assembled a list of accessories, not necessarily focused on the camera, but rather ideas on how to make your flight a positive experience.   Batteries and Multi-Battery Charger   As mentioned in the beginning of the article, not having enough batteries is a real bummer. Even if you have a drone that will fly for thirty pl