Learning to “Fly Right” is one of the most important safety steps to learn.
Even if you have been flying for a while it is extremely important to learn the basic safety rules. The article in Digital Aviators, Fly Right, Back to the Basics is a great recourse for basic flight safety.
The FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) has a set of guidelines to follow if you plan to use your drone as a hobbyist.
Recreational purposes which include:
- Fly below 400 feet and remain clear of surrounding obstacles
- Keep the aircraft within visual line of sight at all times
- Remain well clear of and do not interfere with manned aircraft operations
- Don’t fly within 5 miles of an airport unless you contact the airport and control tower before flying
- Don’t fly near people or stadiums
- Don’t fly an aircraft that weighs more than 55 lbs
- Don’t be careless or reckless with your unmanned aircraft – you could be fined for endangering people or other aircraft
Know Before You Fly is another great source. Also, as a hobbyist you must register your drone through the FAA web site. This is your identification number and should be put on the drone, but not shared publicly.
This is a few helpful tips and links. Send me an email if you have other questions, I would love to help. 🙂