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Flying Tip of the Week: How to Fly a Drone

Draganfly UAV Courtesy of Draganfly
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The FAA has implemented new registration rules for hobby drones (0.55-55 lbs), requiring operators aged 13+ to register online, pay $5, and affix the registration ID.
  • Drone pilots must follow common-sense safety guidelines, such as maintaining line of sight, flying below 400 feet, respecting privacy, and staying clear of airports, people, and sensitive operations.
  • Unsafe drone operation can lead to serious repercussions, as demonstrated by interference with firefighting efforts and near misses near commercial airports.
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The drone industry is booming and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) may become one of the most popular Christmas presents this year. Yesterday the FAA’s new drone registration rules kicked in, requiring all people flying an sUAS between 0.55 lbs and 55 lbs to register their aircraft. If you are flying a heavier drone or are using it for anything but hobby and recreation you will have to go through a more arduous registration process.

Pia Bergqvist

Pia Bergqvist joined FLYING in December 2010. A passionate aviator, Pia started flying in 1999 and quickly obtained her single- and multi-engine commercial, instrument and instructor ratings. After a decade of working in general aviation, Pia has accumulated almost 3,000 hours of flight time in nearly 40 different types of aircraft.

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