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Tips for Beginners: Staying Out of Trouble in Public Areas
Intro:In a world where public safety and privacy are serious concerns, drones are often looked upon as dangerous and invasive and have faced a high level of opposition. Because of this, even safe and responsible UAV operators can find themselves in tight and difficult situations during public drone operations when confronted by harassing, overreacting, or sometimes merely concerned bystanders. Drone operators can decrease the risk of getting into trouble by minding a few concepts; Certification, Restrictions, Public Appearance, Responsibility, and Respect.
Certification
First on the list is the importance of certification. In most countries, flying a drone that weighs more than a set weight must be registered with the airspace authorities governing that area. Likewise, most countries require that the UAV pilot be licensed, or, certified through a knowledge exam set by the airspace authorities. Having the certifications and registrations required to fly in your country can open up many opportunities you would not have had previously.
RestrictionsAlways be aware of local and general restrictions the apply to your country and region. Flying in restricted areas is an easy way to have your drone confiscated and to loose your UAV operating privileges. Be sure to obtain authorization before flying in private or restricted airspace. Flying with full authorization is the best way to stay clear of many issues that operators face.
Public Appearance
Commercial drone operators often find themselves flying in public areas flying for their clients. Skeptical bystanders are most likely to be influenced towards leaving you alone if your dress and conduct are professional. It is not required, but I strongly suggest wearing a safety vest while operating your UAV in public areas. This deflects a large amount of the concern bystanders may have regarding your drone. Dress professionally even though you are flying legally either way. Professionalism also means being polite to others, even though they may be rude or even harassing.
ResponsibilityEvery UAV operator must fly responsibly. A responsible pilot will stay out of most, in not all, trouble in public areas by taking others’ safety, privacy, and concerns as well as his or her physical and mental state into primary consideration. Remember: the safety of others is of infinite more importance than that “perfect shot.” Always fly with an emergency protocol. If your drone begins malfunctioning, immediately determine the safest way to terminate the flight. Develop a pre-flight checklist that covers your drone’s flight-worthiness to prevent most (if not all) possible malfunctions.
RespectRespect is what makes the most responsible pilots stand out from others. Respectfulness is not invading another’s privacy, taking consideration for the opinions of others, and always behaving in a sober and polite manner. Build respect for yourself and the drone profession by asking permission, though it may seem like a given “yes” in some cases, to fly over or to capture footage of another person’s property.
Always keep in mind that building another’s respect for your hobby or profession as a safe and responsible drone pilot helps to make the world of drone flying an even more respected activity than ever before.
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