7 Ways for Drone Pilots to Avoid the Wrath of the FAA!

[@sailingbvi1]

Hello. First an excellent video! I recently retired from the FAA as an ASI/UAS, aka Drone Focal point, and the one that investigated all the drone issues in my district. Currently I am a UAS DRONE PRO for the district, (volunteer educator). Your 7 ways are spot on, and I wish all operators would watch it. If i may add two items of interest, first the LAANC authorization confirmation number SHOULD be documented, either on the preflight checklist or anywhere. By the way 107 does require a preflight inspection, it is up to the operator to prove this preflight for each flight. The FAA has the ability to verify this LAANC number/date and time, and operator authorization. Without proof it is your word against theirs, or the complainant's. It is advisable to keep this data for as long as you own the drone, at least 2 years. Secondly, you mentioned it and I am glad you did is the maintenance record. It is the operators responsibility, (in lieu of an airworthiness certificate) to keep/ensure the Drone is in an airworthy condition. When I was talking with, aka investigating, an operator i would ask for proof of airworthiness of the UAS. This was often followed by a blank stare. I would ask a follow up question, "What is your Drone hit a person and caused serious injury, can you prove that you were flying an airworthy aircraft?" remember saying so is not the same as showing documentation. Lastly, yes I know I said a couple things , but you are spot on with having the right attitude with the FAA. Having a willing and able attitude will always side in your favor. It is a program called the FAA's Compliance Program. I will be hosting a zoom/ poss a webinar that discusses how the complaint process works and how operators should react to "the call". Again thanks again for he great video One last foot note: UAS flight records can be requested by the FAA, and when provided, (in my experience) has helped the UAS operator prove that they were flying with the rules.

[@51Drones]

Thanks for the info!

[@thedebatemechannel4746]

Can we stop calling quadcopters/helicopters drones? They are RC helicopters. It was the media that started calling them drones because they sounds scary (viewers alarmed by thinking kids are buying Predator drones now). It's so bad that most hobbyist don't even seen to realize that they are flying helicopters.

[@thedebatemechannel4746]

UAVs

[@StevenTheGeek]

@@thedebatemechannel4746 But they are drones. I've not read in any definition that a UAV only becomes a drone once weaponised. You can not replace the word with RC Helicopters in the context of FAA, you would have to use UAV. But UAV doesn't exactly roll off the tongue so I'd much rather use Drone. I mean, I can tell my DJI to take off, fly 12km away, snap a photo and come back and land, all without touching the controller. If that isn't a drone then what is?

[@NonyaDamnbusiness]

DJI has recognized that their line of consumer/prosumer drones are cutting into their enterprise market as well as possibly raising the ire of the FAA which is why the firmware on their new Mini 2 and Mavic Air 2 models do not allow for full-on autonomous flights like the previous models did. They were the first to implement "no fly" zones into their DJI Fly app after all. You also can't "store" the waypoint/flight plan on the drone itself anymore and a constant connection with the controller is required for those 2 new models otherwise they go into RTH mode. I think going forward they're going to do the same with all new consumer-level models they produce, probably to push more sales of their more expensive enterprise/prosumer models. And this may just be a desperate bid to try to "lead the way" and prostrate before the U.S. government, especially now that DJI is on "The List" of Chinese Communist Party-friendly companies that U.S. companies can't supply certain technologies to. Since GPS-waypoint autonomous flight paths no not implemented at the firmware level in the new models - something they could easily re-add back to future firmware updates - they're intentionally crippling them. All I see is an opening for U.S. and French-made (Parrot) companies to eat DJI's lunch if they could only expand on their features and bring their pricing down, which is hard to do considering they have to follow free market rules and aren't being propped up by the Communist Chinese Party like DJI is. Not familiar with other drone manufacturers and their models so not sure if the rest of the consumer market is moving in that direction, but I don't think it is or ever will be. Meh. I just got my Part 107 cert, registered & labeled my drone, and use a checklist just to keep the FAA and the legions of Karens off my ass about it. I wish rather than funding gender programs in Pakistan the U.S. government would fund the FAA's drone registration section instead so we don't have to pay $5 to register a drone.

[@anthonywopaness2927]

I got my drone just to have fun, with all of the rules in the beginning then all the changes plus the rules that are soon to come, it just don't feel like much fun anymore

[@yerpster]

Gov’mnt ruins the fun for everyone, again.

[@comment_deleted]

@@yerpster Government is nothing but a parasite. Destroys everything,

[@slapdat.byteme]

Do like me... ignore them, fly rogue, have fun.

[@solgoode1]

Here's a tip to make it fun again. Ignore all that crap and just fly. They're not concerned with safety, they just want to start a billing cycle with drone hobbyists. 400 AGL will NEVER cause a problem with manned aircraft, unless you're breaking the law and violating their airspace where they take off and land.

[@stevesanacore7459]

@@solgoode1 Except for coastlines where helicopters and planes can legally fly as low as they like over the water on the edge of the beach. As someone who spends time in helicopters I can assure you that they may be below 400' AGL anywhere for various reasons dong their jobs. The unofficial cruising altitude for helicopters is 500', quite close to the 400' limit drones are asked to abide by. If people ignore the rules, eventually it will be illegal to fly them at all unless on assignment with a licensed pilot.

[@tundrawhisperer4821]

I avoid all of this by flying in the middle of no where, which is in the middle of Montana! It’s awesome!

[@geezerpleasers_OG]

Same here. As a beginner, I do most of my flying on public land in the Mojave Desert, or similar (which of course must not be a congressionally-designated wilderness area). I have a blast and get some great video on areas of the Old Spanish Trail. I don't post it, mostly because it sucks. I'm still learning on a beginner drone with no gimbal. So, the whole question of whether you can fly with the intent of posting on social media is moot to me.

[@droneguynh6371]

When flying for fun I try to fly in the middle of nowhere as well. I do have my part 107 so I regularly fly around areas where all of this information is very relevant.

[@Adventureswithbecky]

Lol love this!

[@nocare]

There is plenty of nowhere around me but not enough flat ground to take off and land. Would be nice if I lived in a flatter state.

[@tundrawhisperer4821]

@@nocare where’s “nowhere” for you?

[@Akshatgiri]

As a newer drone pilot, this is exactly the advice I needed. Thank you 🙏

[@powertuber4.068]

The Karen problem is real and serious.

[@Joe_Blo]

Yep. They'll go to city councils or HOAs to demand they be banned.

[@Angus626]

👍😆

[@gunfisher4661]

Maybe it`s not so much a karen problem as it is like the issue my co-worker has. He lives at the edge of farming country ,only a few neighbors a short ways down the road but he has frequently a drone hovering over his property, house and barn. He doesn`t lead a odd life style nor does dabble into any thing illegal but these visits are continuous. I suggested to him since he lives in what they call the county [rural] grab the ole 12 gauge and put an end to the invasion of privacy. In some areas it is permitted to do so if they fly to low.

[@noladronelife_6574]

Those Karens may very well be a manned aircraft pilots

[@adamjhuber]

Shoot my drone and you are going to prison. I record at my control point as well as on the drone. That video on my iPad of you shooting my drone (aka an aircraft$ out of the sky is going to the local PD as well as the feds. Enjoy Bubba.

[@fpvpilot7713]

Just fly undetected like I do. No one has ever seen me fly my mavics. If they saw it they would have no idea where I am. I dont understand people flying overhead around people and the police being called. Not necessary. After the media named quadcopters drones people that know nothing about them hate them so its best to just fly without anyone knowing it. I just hope they get some sensible rules together. I mean making it illegal to fly on private property through the woods using goggles is not dangerous and will never stop. I think with rules like that people will just not follow any of them.

[@kekistaniterrorist6630]

www-forbes-com.cdn.ampproject.org/c/s/www.forbes.com/sites/jonathanrupprecht/2020/12/17/drone-pilot-received-182000-proposed-fine/amp/ kick rocks, keep your toys out of NAS

[@specops1903]

@@kekistaniterrorist6630 lmao 🤣 a trumper leaving articles to read.. what a concept

[@kekistaniterrorist6630]

@@specops1903 TDS is a real thing - you need help. identity politics has ruined your life and orange man bad has lived rent free in your head for the past 4 years. thats sad dude. lol.

[@specops1903]

@@kekistaniterrorist6630 what's sad is your loyalty to a cult 🤣 🤣 🤣 🤣

[@kekistaniterrorist6630]

@@specops1903 by the way - muted. bet you wanted last word. you'll never get it. bet that will eat at your soul for the rest of your miserable life.

[@marcustucker8747]

Complaining about using the name “Karen” is such a Karen move.

[@aplus1080]

I called a student Karen and she literally told my boss.

[@marcustucker8747]

@@aplus1080 and completely proved your point 🤣🤣🤣

[@alexpeters7159]

couldn't agree more lol

[@LiquidLensPhotography]

LOLLLLLLLLLL!!!

[@alanmcclure9546]

i Know a lot of Nancy boys also who act like Karen,,, it was much nicer in the old days when we could lump them all into just one word, "Pussys" which had nothing to do with feline animals or derogatory description of female anatomy. I miss the old days

[@readysetdrone]

Great video Russ. Well researched and well said. Thanks for posting!

[@51Drones]

Thanks Kelly! Appreciate it!

[@thejimmy6533]

@geop110 Please post a link to your video with all the pertinent info we need to know. Thanks.

[@thejimmy6533]

@geop110 And yet, here you are trying to make yourself sound more important than him.

[@davidlyle9645]

@geop110 Well then keep your negative comments to yourself!

[@markstambaugh3273]

The drone community needs to form a lobby.

[@SleepyTom2165]

Yes, there needs to be a drone equivalent to the NRA or SEMA.

[@flynncowboy]

@@embearasedbear3694 Do you realize that forming a "Lobby" is the adult method of not being "Pussies" right -

[@flynncowboy]

What about the AMA ( RC Model Group ) Are they not involed in Drones ?

[@jsamc]

DONOT FLY YOUR DRONES IN RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOODS ! it ain't polite.

[@RichKolasa]

@@jsamc I fly wherever it is LEGAL. Your idea of 'polite' isn't a law.

[@jamestaylor954]

After all that shit I don’t want to fly I’m going home lol

[@Nine_883]

I don’t see how the FAA has jurisdiction over some kids flying a Tinyhawk in a park that doesn’t exceed 30 feet in altitude. Can we get remote ID on every crotch rocket I see riding wheelies down the interstate. Drones are being singled out because Amazon and UPS want to own the altitudes under 400 feet.

[@jah8199]

Drones are being singled out because from day one years ago the media has been very negative about them. Can a weapon be attached? Can it be a security threat? What if an airplane crashes into it? It’s not safe! Could they be used to spy on you and your family? There was even a commercial on TV where the bad guy flew a drone over someone’s head and pointed it down on him to steal personal information. Not only do they ask some of these mostly invalid questions but they only report negative incidents about drones. Drone crashes on the White House lawn. Drone flies over stadium full of people etc. That’s why everyone gets their panties in a bunch anytime they see a drone flying around in the sky. Because they assume anyone flying them has to be up to no good. Spying? Maneuvering a weapon? Being irresponsible? That’s why remote ID will be easy as cake for them to kill this hobby because the public will back it 100% due to the negative media reporting about drones for the past decade. As for crotch rockets everyone knows they’re dangerous and idiots ride them irresponsibly. But the media doesn’t have anything bad to say about them...

[@Mister_Garibaldi]

No kidding. Or how about the ATV and dirt bikes riding all over cities in gangs ignoring all laws and harassing legal drivers...the police say they are helpless because the outlaws just evade them. But no one is proposing transponder IDs on those either.

[@gunfisher4661]

@@jah8199 What you just mentioned are real facts already. But I havn`t read any articles lately about a drone equipped with thermal imaging finding a lost hiker in the wilderness. But bound to happen. That stealing info thing is going to get worse as they only need to get 100-150 ft from wi-fi to steal it.

[@michaellowe3665]

@@Mister_Garibaldi is there a "Thunderdome" in your neighborhood? I swear that sounds like some Mad Max shit. I have never seen gangs on dirt bikes and ATVs riding around my neighborhood. If they did the people here would string up some wire between the trees and put a quick end to it.

[@TheFlatlander440]

@@jah8199 All of the above.

[@sinebar]

I use Air Map. It works really good but now I'm afraid to fly my drones anymore.

[@bertsbug]

Why are you afraid now?

[@sinebar]

@@bertsbug The size of the hammer the FAA can hit me with. They aren't screwing around anymore with these drones.

[@CrazyTechy]

In a recent video, the KZbinr talked to the FAA after someone reported him, and they said even if you are not monetized, you can’t post a video on KZbin. You need that Part 107 License to post. The channel is Let’s Be Us.

[@ShinyTechThings]

Got a link to your boilerplate for the laminated document that you leave out while you fly?

[@chendrum2009]

I'd love that as well!

[@bridavbai]

Same here.

[@KimFieldstad]

Me too.

[@brianmayes2451]

Can you please post a copy of the document for people to read while landing.

[@mrgclips]

Useless! I was expecting actual FAA crackdown information, examples and cases. This is clickbait BS! :P

[@51Drones]

Your comment is very helpful. Thank you for your valuable contribution.

[@americanmuslim6665]

I don't get the "Keep it in line of sight" thing. If I fly it 100 meters, I can not even see the drone anymore (and my vision is 20/20). Also if I move 20 feet in any direction as I am in a city, I won't see the drone even if I can see it in the sky (houses will block the view).

[@stephensmith1034]

My Ex is a Karen! Really!!! Take her; she's yours! Please!!!!! 😩

[@JohnnyRFarmer]

As a certificated private pilot, I find this video a great update to common knowledge that everyone flying should have. Thanks! I had a suspension on my certificate about 12 years ago and I learned that half the people who work for the FAA are lawyers. I was polite but I had a difficult time with them nonetheless. I found them to be demanding, arrogant, possessing feelings of self-entitlement, and other undesirable qualities. That may have changed but a bureaucrat will likely remain a bureaucrat. Can you possibly make your laminated explanation sheet available to your subscribers? Anyway, thanks for another great video Russ.

[@PileofBrass]

There's a reason an attorney works for the government. They can't make it on their own. They arent accountable to anyone if they are government paid.

[@StokesFamilyCO]

Pilot friend of mine jokes that the FAA’s slogan is “We’re not happy until you’re not happy”

[@gussegredo]

@@HoundDogMech grow up

[@CU76Tiger]

I would love to have a copy of the laminated sheet for haters to read.

[@keefetography7655]

Can you do a video on the laminated form that you mentioned at 09:52? That's such a great idea!

[@IanMcKendrick1]

...or maybe a link to a PDF/DOC that we could download and edit to use ourselves??? Thank you in advance!!

[@FlowCat]

This is one of the most informative drone videos I've ever seen. Thank you for clearly laying this out, armed with knowledge it's easy to be confident and polite when people get upsetti over seeing something they don't like. I really enjoyed the tip about not engaging with people until you land your drone, and clearly stating that. That's a great move, as it shows professionalism and an earnest focus on safety.

[@vvti18]

On the DJI Fly app there is a map that you can access and find out about warnings, No fly zones, TFR's would that be the same as using let's say Air map??

[@dnml4713]

Good stuff, thank you. Even thought I'm not happy with the FAA right now, I appreciate you keeping it positive. Need examples of how to do it the right way.

[@tropictom5996]

If you enjoy flying drones you might also enjoy falconry. They can be trained to do many things autonomously to include dropping bio loads on intruding Karens. Best of all, no licensing or restrictions. 🦅

[@marioarias9942]

Birds are in the air at the same altitude as drones and in the billions so why isn't there airplane crashing because of birds hundreds of times a day? 🤔

[@neo57611]

Lol

[@tropictom5996]

@@marioarias9942 I like to think of the 0-400 airspace as the sidewalk. Pedestrians stay on the sidewalk and cars stay on the road. However, they cross paths when a car enters a parking area etc. It’s a decent system but it is built in the concept that the cars will voluntarily stay on the road and the pedestrians will stay on the sidewalk.

[@bp-ob8ic]

@@tropictom5996 Good analogy. But, as a helicopter pilot, I can attest that there are many times that we are 'on the sidewalk.' I currently fly Air Ambulance, which entails landing just about anywhere. Also, power companies do extensive work at tree-top level. As I do either, I am constantly looking for the thing (animal or mechanical) that will kill me. Know your area (not just the airspace). That power line you never thought about might be getting inspected today. If you hear sirens, figure out where they are and where they are going (generally) and stay away.

[@bp-ob8ic]

@@marioarias9942 there are many bird strikes, most are not catastrophic. My experience has been that most birds react to the sound of my helicopter and dive. My drone does not.

[@kdaadventures8616]

I am new to flying a drone and your videos are very helpful. Thank you Russ.

[@michaelbenedicto5635]

I say video did you use mavic air also like me

[@1docg]

Model aircraft have been around since the 40s. It wasn't until last year that the Federal Aviation Administration felt it needed to get involved. When a federal agency is asked to get involved in any issue it usually becomes a huge solution in search of a problem.

[@Syncopator]

Good point, are gas powered RV airplane models subject to these kinds of rules? Does it matter if a flying gadget has a camera or not?

[@dallasfortworthfoundationr8215]

It was about the time Ukraine started dropping grenades with drones...

[@charlestrent4453]

I think the FAA went overboard on this Drone think. Yes safety is important, but do we need to take same test as one that’s flying an passenger airplane to fly a drone safely.

[@micpic119]

This is the best video I've seen on the subject after 6 years of flying three different drones and have had a pt.107 for the last 3. Great job!

[@darkelf1000]

ORRRRRR.......you dont have to keep a maintenance record or pre flight checklist etc...JUST to appease other people who dont like drones.

[@peacepantherproductions]

It’s actually in your best interest because if something happens and someone tries to sue you you have all of that as back up. If you do nothing you’ve left yourself open.

[@darkelf1000]

@@peacepantherproductions my best interest is to live my life how I want to and not by other peoples expectations of how I should. Thank you.

[@peacepantherproductions]

My point here is if your drone has a lost link or a fly away and suddenly ends up smashing into someone’s window or who knows what happens they’re going to sue you. This isn’t about someone trying to take your freedom away. It’s about common sense to make sure you’re covered and you can back it up with all of that documentation. “Suit yourself” ha.

[@bradjtrains]

I am a newly Part 107 certified pilot. This is extremely helpful! I really liked how you have a laminated sheet for folks to read until the drone is landed. As pilots, we should be focused on the mission and safely flying the drones, not answering questions mid flight. This is something that I'm going to incorporate into my routines.

[@firebat214]

Video was very informative. Is it possible to get a copy of the document you give to someone who walks up to you? Thanks

[@KorbenDallas]

The FAA has no authority with regards to private drones. The FAA has no authority outside federal jurisdictions. Getting a FAA license puts you under FAA jurisdiction, that's how they can now force you to comply with rules that never applied you in the first place.

[@marcoreviews]

When will the FAA have PayPal features to register the drones? A lot of people just don’t want to pay by credit card 💳 and would be happy to register.

[@rjlewis3932]

The FAA is really dropping the hammer on drone KZbinrs.

[@charleswood6332]

Good.

[@dingalarm]

The FAA shouldn't be monetizing the airspace, anyway (via registration) !! 😠 Safety should be their only concern !

[@rjlewis3932]

@@dingalarm It costs money to regulate airspace and yes, it needs to be regulated for safety reason. $5 per every 3 years certainly isn’t excessive.

[@DarkpawTheWolf]

51 Drones: "Don't post videos on KZbin of you breaking FAA rules." Everyone who just bought a DJI Mini 2: "Watch me fly this out to 12000 feet. Look at the telemetry, you can see it in the video...the video where I also show my face."

[@jrs-sx5jb]

12000 feet is VLOS if you are a cyborg with satellite quality optical sensors for eyes.

[@infectedneuronz5995]

my friend lets his buddy track him with strobe and binoculars!

[@depellerinluc]

Couple drone channels in CA and HI gonna be next.

[@kraggman]

@@depellerinluc I know that HI channel you speak of. Sitting duck.

[@VietCakes]

Wait the dji mini has no elevation restrictions?

[@tjbleu635]

i had a neighborhood "Karen" threaten to call the " FCC" because i was doing a real estate shoot. -_____-

[@dominiqueclichee7924]

😂💀

[@brianjackson8162]

OH NOOOO. the FCC is going to send you to prison, forever.

[@texasgonzo67]

Only thing the FCC would have anything to do with is the tranceivers... which they DO.

[@dknowles60]

@@texasgonzo67 FCC also has a fed gov law and over rides FAA law that drones must stay 400 ft from a ant and power lines.

[@AJOutdoors1]

So the mavic mini does not require registration with the FAA due to it's weight. So, does the requirement for a license still apply to it?

[@poman911]

In the last 10 years, have you heard of any catastrophic accidents involving aircrafts and drones less than 3 lbs?

[@Topic_____542]

Well there was that one guy who flew his drone into the wildfires to get a better shot which cost emergency workers thousands of dollars and possibly lives because they pulled out their helicopters. SMH

[@johnbrennan6208]

Happened in Sydney Australia a couple of years ago . @@Topic_____542

[@Topic_____542]

@@johnbrennan6208 That sucks. Remember as drone pilots we represent each other. It only takes one drone pilot to mess everything up.

[@acoustic4037]

@@Topic_____542 it only takes one moron to over react to nothing at all to mess everything up. We live in a world that punishes those who do nothing wrong.

[@SangheiliSpecOp]

@@Topic_____542 yeah

[@incadanman18]

I got my drone license today! Can’t wait to tell off a Karen 😍

[@petrub27]

how much it costs you? here is about 900 euros

[@incadanman18]

@@petrub27 $10 in Canada lol

[@petrub27]

@@incadanman18 ah, no we must be talking about something else; the drone training is not a tener. what the hell, did they test you about how to change the batteries?

[@petrub27]

candrone.com/collections/drone-training-certification actually, i found it for you. similar prices

[@petrub27]

@Barack Obama you're fired!

[@davidyule3605]

“Becoming a lost art these days.” Sad but true. New drone pilot here, and I really appreciate the quality information you share. I really like the laminated sheet with “don’t engage with me until I’ve landed the drone”

[@salvagemonster3612]

Ahhh I don’t care. None Drone Pilot here

[@rexwine]

I worry less about my drone falling on some random person after switching to the Mini 2. Also I don't go out of my way to be noticed flying either so as to avoid as many Karens as possible.

[@michaelripple8371]

What is a Karen other than a woman's name

[@rexwine]

@@michaelripple8371 Just urban slang for someone who feels overly entitled. Like someone who would call city hall to complain that a funeral procession blocking traffic delayed her shopping trip by 6 minutes.

[@trancer03]

What about privacy laws? You did not mention. seems like the biggest issue by far is privacy laws. license plates , peoples, even someone house is all private as in you can't record it and post it at all. seems to me its pretty much impossible to make any drone footage you can earn money on or even post somewhere.

[@swilson317]

@Russ...Great video! Any chance you might share a cleaned-up version of your laminated sheet...or maybe a list of the content you included? Seems like a good idea! Thanks!

[@hiflite2925]

I use the Kittyhawk app for LAANC approval, and I’ve found that it will not give you an approval when flying in unrestricted airspace, because it’s not needed. I’ve tried.

[@lidarman2]

I always go into flights nervous about what people will do but so far, I have had nothing but positive engagement and high interest in what I am doing.

[@Musicman1017YT]

Same!!

[@billgoldly3962]

sounds like you're not in the States ! governments would be better doing gun control .... guns are way more deadly than drones .... I'd hate to go to school there, always fearing a loony with guns .... most drone people want to make nice cinema graphic movies of interesting places ....people need to be ' set at ease ' about what dronies do ..... start a positive group who wants to extol the virtues ... perhaps

[@sergeantrandomusmc]

"Basic decency is kinda becoming a lost art these days" - LMAO sad but true! Great informative video, thanks for sharing.

[@a_mustache_of_great_repute]

Basic decency. Like not recording over someone's private property.

[@RichKolasa]

@@a_mustache_of_great_repute You don't own the airspace.

[@gunfisher4661]

You may be challenged in court if you publish pictures of my lets say my back yard without my permission. I notice that a lot of drone pilots still fly peoples yards in the hopes of finding something juicy that will trump the fact that they were flying unlawfully in that space.

[@CSVALDOSTA]

i'm surprised and disappointed that with as many drone pilots that there are out there, that there isn't ONE checklist for drones anywhere. NONE

[@russellsimmons3265]

Great video! I would love to see more about your lamented paper you carry around, that’s a great idea that I think I should implement.

[@Andyrewk]

I was actually highly impressed how easy it was to apply and get LAANCE Approval. I was nervous about messing it up and really was caught off guard when all you needed was to fill out the form appropriately hit send and then wait. Then you get and email and a text. It’s very nice and so far it’s been granted within 5 mins each time.

[@quantumphaser]

Just heard about Mike's (Philly Drone Life)$182,000 fine from the FAA. I'd call that cracking down.

[@VOTEREPUBLICANS594]

Democrats robbing and plundering

[@soonermarketing]

I'd love to have that form you use that's laminated for our team to use! Are you able to post a Google Doc link of what your form looks like?

[@markkempton4579]

Ditto. Was about the ask the same thing. I'd be happy to chip in a few bucks for a pdf.

[@johnrambo1349]

I fly my drone 2 miles out. Flying in vlos is stupid as fawk. These drones are so advanced how can you even crash.

[@BenCuthbertson]

Thanks for the tips Russ! I had someone approach me a few weeks ago mid-flight when I was sticking to all the rules - I think I might put together a document like your laminated one! 🤩😉

[@christopherhardin2821]

Fantastic information and great tips. “Separation is in the preparation” and your spot on by having a laminated checklist to help while flying. I’m going to use that as well. Thank yoU!

[@stevewinchester6506]

FYI, there are no "nice" Karens and I was Karened last week while flying legally.

[@supafpv1759]

I feel that. Karen’s man smh. Chads are the best cause they show up and go yoooo that shits dope is that VR? Lmao

[@jam5158]

Really? Keeping your drone within eyesight? You have the Mini 2 and know once it gets out 50 yards it's pretty much invisible with its color matching the sky. Why bother to buy a drone you can't fly to places you can't walk too.

[@johnrambo1349]

Number 1 way to avoid the FFA. Dont post stupid sht online and you wont get caught. Lmao

[@brentnunley2600]

It’s easy. Learn and follow the rules. Period.

[@danpatterson8009]

Yep. For every "Karen" there's a yahoo who ignores the rules.

[@jcjensenllc]

The "crackdown" is all about restricting access. Amazon doesn't want competition for their home delivery drones.

[@charlieodom9107]

I agree with this statement!

[@golemsnatch5755]

It's not just Amazon, there are loads of government departments with ambitions for using autonomous aircraft and for uses that haven't been dreamt up yet.

[@charlieodom9107]

@@golemsnatch5755 it's okay though...I have a GPS jammer to prevent unwanted flyovers at my house.

[@mikel9567]

@@charlieodom9107 You realize you also don't own the airspace over your house so if you were to cause a drone to crash you would be liable. I would imagine that not only would the owner sue you, but the FAA would probably fine you as well. On top of that I would imagine that the local authorities would probably charge you with something too. Not to mention in most instances, possession of a jammer itself is illegal. Is it worth it?

[@charlieodom9107]

@@mikel9567 good luck trying to explain how you crashed your drone in my yard!!! Also, good luck explaining why you were eavesdropping on my property. There are privacy laws that include flying over private property at such a low altitude. My jammer only works below 100' in altitude, and only over my house, so you would need to be low enough to be breaking state law anyway. Stay off my property and you get to keep your drone.

[@onikin]

What forms and permissions do I need to get from the Coast Guard and Fish & Wildlife for my RC Boats? Very dangerous things. What if they caused a speedboat to crash or I endangered someone on a pool noodle or something? They probably hurt the fish too! Gotta be regulated!

[@fladave99]

My cat is certified to go out side

[@JoeSeniorVideo]

@@fladave99 my cat can jump higher than yours .( smile ).

[@dunnoyolo2238]

So basically in a nut 🥜 shell it’s Chinese communism’s...😂😂😂

[@dougshrader7721]

I can't see my drone 20 feet up.

[@TheGuyThatWondersWhy]

Time to visit an optometrist.

[@TylerNally]

It'd be nice to know the text of the laminated document you direct to Karen.

[@MarkStD]

I agree. I believe it would help with all the questions you get while flying.

[@rynolin342]

He posted it today top comment

[@RetiredRoadTrips]

@@rynolin342 @51 Drones Am I missing something? I don't see it.

[@rynolin342]

@@RetiredRoadTrips It's the pinned comment my dude

[@rynolin342]

@@RetiredRoadTrips My bad he changed the pinned comment since I saw it. If you go on his patreon you can see it

[@MatHelm]

Kitty Hawk requires way too many permissions on your phone.

[@tonyowen116]

Great info Russ.... Much appreciated. Having taught at an FAA certified school for A&P mechanics , I've had many "positive" engagements with the local FAA FSDO. Your point about being professional, and non-argumentative when dealing with the FAA is really the best policy. At one point we had to rewrite, and submit a new curriculum for FAA Approval (local level). We had to make some corrections as required, which we did. I found if you work with them, they will work with you. Our local office at the time was interested more in educating than filing violations. (True not all people have had positive encounters. Usually depends on one's personal attitude, on both sides.) As you noted, being prepared with the type of items you listed, goes a long way with the FAA in addressing any alleged infractions. Really can't stress enough, that all recreational pilots and especially Part 107, try to incorporate your suggestions into their normal flying routines.

[@DonFassbender]

How does a KZbinr with an established, large or small channel, get into drone use to augment his or her videos? Do we need to take a course first, or purchase a drone, learn the basics and then apply for the 107? Great topic. Any and all (less Karen's) response appreciated.

[@ngengs1]

Hi Russ, when are you going to chime in with the final rule FAA rule dated 12/28/2020? I follow your vids for regulatory issues such as this. Can't wait for your feedback and THANK YOU!

[@kevinkillsit]

"My friend flew the drone. I just posted the footage." haha Do these rules apply to FPV? It's pretty hard to comply with VLOS rules while wearing goggles.

[@WXwylht]

FAA requests another observer beside the operator when flying FPV

[@ellzgoespro6568]

According to the FAA's "rules" FPV drones should be illegal. And no, a spotter isn't an option when they say YOU must maintain line of sight. Last time I checked, a spotter isn't YOU.

[@steveeck3438]

I have huge issues with Remote ID!!! Lets say I'm out flying my drone taking pictures and video of my family on vacation and some guy's come up to me after using the public portal and finds my location. Lets say he comes up and threatening me and my family about the drone. Straight up giving access to the general public is nonsense and puts Drone pilots in danger.

[@AceGoodheart]

I agree that there needs to be some rules with flying drones. Like using the drone to spy on people or using the drone unsafely in a manner that could cause harm to someone. But as always the government is creating too many restrictions on drone use. I think it's ridiculous that your drone footage can't be used for monetary purposes without a license. They don't do that for normal video footage so why is aerial footage subject to this rule? The government gets too controlling and this is a perfect example.

[@bobpamharrison8331]

federal law, passed by Congress and signed by President Barack Obama in 2012, explicitly prevented the FAA from making rules covering “model aircraft,” defined as “unmanned aircraft” flown for recreational purposes.

[@RUS38]

Cause all govts are corrupt, all govts are mafia in power. They are always looking for ways to suck more money out of people for anything they do like blood sucking parasites.

[@TheRobJager]

Great video. Very helpful. Do you, by chance, have the script you have laminated to place around you when flying if someone starts to talk to you? I'd love to integrate that into my box. There is nothing more unsafe than having someone pepper you with questions while flying. I love the idea and would love to use it. Thank you either way for the video!

[@teeodee4924]

It would be great to see a copy of that letter you leave out for people to read. It sounds like a great tool to inform and educate someone approaching you while flying that doesn't know the rules and is trying to engage you while you are trying to fly.

[@skookapalooza2016]

Imagine that...another three letter federal agency cracking down on freedom.

[@diggingattycho7908]

I retired my drones. I can see the writing on the wall, this list is only going to get longer.

[@terryshrives8322]

I'm about to do the same thing. If not the FAA, it's everyone else. We should have never let it happen to begin with. What ever happened to fighting back?

[@billfearheller4179]

@@terryshrives8322 I think the "key word" problem is 'fighting". Somehow we need to find another term..I have no suggestions, but I'm sure some or all of you guys do. I would like to hear (read) them. Be well and stay safe, bf

[@diggingattycho7908]

I work in a field that deals with bureaucracy. Honestly there isn't much we can do. Once they start regulating it never stops. I've almost never heard of agencies deregulating. If they do, they will side step. Come at you another way. "Fighting" isn't the word you want to use. I've seen guys that fight get into even more trouble. An individual regulator doesn't really carry any responsibility. The agency does, but an agency like the FAA has far more resources than anybody. You want to fight them good luck, you will loose. Once they make up their mind, we now have to go through all of their hoops and hurdles. And a lot more are coming. Best to try to work with them, but... I think what the FAA want's is all of us out the sky. Sure they will put on a good face. They want to deter millions of drones flying around up there. The first step is to make things difficult for the individual. Then do the slow boil.

[@jayphillips4058]

Sadly, and with a good deal of regret, I'm doing that also. I was a private pilot, worked at an FBO, and have a good friend who's a retired airline captain. I've directly/indirectly learned a lot about the FAA. Russ is correct..they're no joke, and if properly motivated and having a bad day anyway, they can ruin a person's life in short order. Not worth it for a 30 second video of digging a culvert crossing in on a remote ranch road..I'll go back to zip-tying my Removu K1 on the excavator boom or a nearby tree or hilltop. My 22 page followers and 3 channel subscribers will just have to learn to live with substandard footage. :-)

[@KeithsTVHD1]

Same here, i may just go old school and get a kite.

[@CambodiaExpatsOnline]

So, all these same rules apply for a drone weighing 249g EXCEPT the FAA registration? Thanks.

[@batuaerial213]

That's correct! Weigh doesn't matter except for the registration. You still have to follow the rules

[@photorealm]

I live 4.5 miles from an airport. How high can I fly my drone in my back yard? Say I want to examine the shingles on my roof can I go up just above roof level?

[@lenrusnak162]

Without a doubt this is the MOST VALUABLE drone related video I have ever seen. EVERY single point that the author makes is valuable. I will watch this video many times and I will take notes for sure. It is very reassuring to know for SURE that you are flying within the law. Thanks so much for this video! I really appreciate it!

[@TomSpurlock]

Good one! Being polite is a lost art. So true.

[@jonjames4281]

One of the reasons I got my 107 is to keep the FAA off my back and also, who knows, I might make money off it down the road but was/is certainly not my intent. My DJI drone keeps extremely good records of everywhere where it goes and what it does even remote id, no hiding that. I'll even post what drone, it''s FAA #, my FAA# on vids I post. I'm as up-front as you can get about it all. If I screw up, it's on me. I think the mini 2 is going to be the reason the FAA will go postal on all of us. People really do need to know the basic rules regardless if you have to register your drone or not.

[@chadroberts44]

Does all this count for the Mini and Mini 2?

[@stanportclintonOh]

I am a commercial pilot do I need a drone license ???

[@sergeantdrone5534]

Great information Russ. Need a refresher now and again.

[@taekwondokid66]

I have a very interesting story! I was the first ever drone pilot to be taken to court in the state of Maine! Hmu if I wanna hear the story

[@DanDascalescu-dandv]

How about posting it up on some blog like Medium and linking it here?

[@Commander4AL]

I started flying at night. Less wind, thermals and Karens

[@paulsturgill8848]

👀

[@PropDusting]

Tulare, California. It sucks to live in fear of being attacked for just flying around. Most of the time people are friendly but, there is that constant fear of confrontations without reason.

[@flatline42]

I worked on a civil engineering project in the county a few years back and the engineers had to have police escorts to keep from getting shot or harassed. Kings County/Tulare County are still pretty rugged/wild west.

[@PropDusting]

@@flatline42 that is crazy! We have had to have armed security on some job sites that was in bad areas but it was for theft.

[@scjewing]

Hi Russ. We have the same issues here in Ireland, yes watching from the Emerald Isle. Great video, as usual. Stay safe and fly well my friend.

[@chris]

GREAT video! Does Casey Neistat have a Part 107 license? He's the biggest vlogger in the world, using his personal drone footage in almost every video. It's incredible, but I have to wonder...

[@51Drones]

no he doesn’t, but he also never show himself flying anymore

[@chris]

@@51Drones He hasn’t posted in a while but if you look at any of his recent videos (any prior to his political video) he does fly his drone for his shots. So how can he get away with it while others can’t?

[@KorbenDallas]

Just remember to never ever do a drone livestream.

[@DoubleD72]

He posted a video once stating he was contacted by the FAA and warned. he was also warned by the city of NY.

[@chris]

@@DoubleD72 I wonder if that's why he hasn't posted for 2 months. His epic drone shots were a part of every single video and they were awesome. So if the FAA came down hard on him, maybe that's why? I can't imagine someone who's as creative as Casey letting that stop him though.

[@matthewsequoyah2665]

“Karens” hate being called Karen ! 😁

[@richiebricker]

someday somebody will eat a drone, then they will be "Deadly Drones" and theyll ground all of us. PLEASE, everyone, dont fly anywhere near a wild fire. Helicopter pilots are scared of drones and them dudes are up there trying to save my house from burning down!

[@richiebricker]

If we do as they say, none of us will be sent to the death camps for drone pilots

[@ah4quadssake885]

Ban cars,trucks,planes,trains,toasters,dishwashers,slippery icy pavements,sneezing,workplaces,electricity etc etc ALL have killed many people milions of times over,drones have killed ZERO people. Are any of the above classed as "deadly"? 700 a year die from the "deadly toasters"

[@RARenfield]

Helicopter pilots see the end of their lucrative careers with unmanned aerial vehicles. Any wonder they report "drone encounters" all the time? It costs a small fortune to get a helicopter ticket today. Let alone keeping them in the air. But a $600 drone will do more and do it better, every time, all day long. FAA is just in on a corporate power-grab coming down on R/C enthusiasts in favor of Amazon. A great hobby, accessible to all, bludgeoned to death by greed.

[@JoseArrom]

1) The laminate card is a great idea. Item 1 does need to be modified for Recreation flyers. The Recreational test/certificate has not materialized one year after it was due out I would add the FAA drone URL. 2) The pre-flight checklist can be set up in Apple Notes or similar app, on your mobile.

[@BarqueCat2]

This video just earned my subscription. Thank you!

[@ShowMeDronescom]

If I’m flying where people will be around I wear a yellow safety vest. This usually keeps people away and let’s them know to stay back.

[@Photoflyboy]

Me too! and I have never had one person or Officer come near me.

[@paulvanderborgt5581]

I've thought about this, but at the same time, it directs them right to you, whereas often people have no idea who is piloting the drone. I think I'd rather stay incognito as long as possible. I may get one for certain situations.

[@Photoflyboy]

@@paulvanderborgt5581 I have nothing to hide. I know what the laws are what airspace I'm in and have authorizations on hand. Nothing at all to worry about even in highly populated areas around Dallas where most of my work occurs. Many times I have to watch out for Big airliners coming in for landing at DFW airport. Hey, do whatever works for you... Most importantly have fun and stay legal. Cheers!

[@paulvanderborgt5581]

@@Photoflyboy I have nothing to hide either, but also prefer not to draw attention to myself. Always legal and safe.

[@dvascukynas]

Lol always put my hard hat and yellow vest on, people just assume I’m doing work for a construction/engineering company. Never bother me 😂

[@stevebrown5341]

I am a pilot and I’ve had to divert several times when approaching for landing at an airport. Obviously it could have been disastrous if I hadn’t been very observant.

[@peacepantherproductions]

See this is horrible- I am about to take my part 107 exam in a few days after studying for a few weeks now and it scares me that there’s people out there who don’t know what they’re doing and making everyone else look bad. I honestly think that everyone should have to pass the part 107, it’s like a drivers license.

[@d.hansel854]

In any hobby there are people who don't give a rat's rear-end about rules. We, responsible drone pilots get blamed for all that. Blame it on the news media and their biased hype.

[@ah4quadssake885]

liar

[@silverspork86]

This seems kind of excessive.

[@VOTEREPUBLICANS594]

Democrats at work

[@JackTheRabbitMusic]

so, I've been thinking about getting a drone, because they look like a lot of fun, and I thought I could get some cool videos for my KZbin channel. After seeing all the red tape and strings you've gotta pull to actually get the thing in the air, I'm not sure why anyone in their right mind would ever fly one. The government sure does suck the fun out of everything. This is why we can't have nice things. 🐰💜🇺🇲🎸🎶🤝✌

I live in mexico and we fly are drones whereever we frinking want and NOBODY CARES we can fly it in city or a beach or forest or over people or over private property and NO one says a dam thing, BUT HEY! THANKS FOR THE INFO i keep it in mind next time on our vacation in USA THE COUNTRY WITH MORE LAWS THAN ANY OTHER COUNTRY I KNOW God bless you all and if i fly my drone in the future in the US i will fly it in the middle of nowhere for recreation im going to say.

[@flywrightdrones]

I feel bad for Mikey, I hope everything works out for him.

[@51Drones]

He made some big mistakes, but the fine is horrendous overkill.

[@Kana7782]

@@51Drones what “allegedly “ did he do? I thought I heard someone was complaining about him as well?

[@ttight11]

@@steve2736 I heard Mikey ignored FAA inquiries and letters. Clearly overkill fine, but he didn't help his case.

[@rgbaerialphotographyvideob3995]

Hey, Great information and video. Can you attach the sheet you laminated to show authorities? Thanks 51!

[@Kingcruzer360]

It's really hard to imagine that people buying their sub $1000 DJI drones or the numerous options of other brands on Amazon for under $300 are following any of these rules, let alone aware of them. And now with how cheap they are, I would bet there will be a ton of new drone flyers after Christmas. I will say that when I tell people I bought a drone, they usually will just say thats cool and not ask many questions, but, when I actually show them the drone and demonstrate what it can do in flight, they probably gasp Oh MY GOD at least 10 times... so i would say the majority of people are unaware of the product they are purchasing. Modern drones are really tools, not toys. Unfortunately, the 10% of us that are aware of the rules and follow them only get more screwed by the other 90%. Plus that 90% gives the general public a reason to think they can come yell at us and tell us that we are breaking the law while trying to focus on flight (has happened to me twice now). I mean people legitemately think that they have the right from the get go to just start yelling like mad men because they see a drone, honestly we are all probably going to get screwed in the long run. The people that follow the rules will keep getting more and more rules to follow, and the other 90% will continue to do whatever the hell they want, hence making more rules for us.

[@murrijuana2842]

You can thank msm for people yelling at you.

[@RVingwithG]

I find it hard to see KZbinRs Flying their Drone while Driving their Van and we all know that they are all along. And even better/Worse .. Flying over a HI-way or in town.

[@solgoode1]

I had a beautiful sunrise flight this morning in KSDL airspace. Didn't bother filing with LAANC because it wouldn't do anything to make a pilot aware of my presence. Keep your ears open for a helo scud running the rooftops and bring the drone down and you'll be ok. A fixed-wing plane WILL NOT HIT YOU AT 400 FT AGL. If there is a plane at 400 feet AGL and it's not near the runway, they have a lot more problems than a freaking Mavic hitting them.

[@AtomicTacoSauce]

As a new pilot, I appreciate this information. Yes, some is "common knowledge," but we all know that rules were written in part because people couldn't follow common knowledge.