Drone Operation –
FAA’s new “Rule 107” regulating drone operation is a flexible and forward-leaning regulatory framework that seems to balance access, innovation, and safety.
However, the FAA means business when it comes to drone operators violating airspace regulations. This unfortunate lesson comes at the hefty cost of $200,000 for one Chicago-based company and there are many, many more examples.
As a commercial pilot flying conventional aircraft in our local area, almost daily, there have been far too many close-calls with drones operating above 400 feet. I also operate a drone and follow regulations to the letter, as do most of our local drone operators, however; there seems to be an increase in the careless operation within the restricted airspace in which I normally fly.
This is a friendly reminder to all drone operaters that the FAA means business and we are all concerned for everyone’s safety.
If you fly your drone in controlled airspace, I.E. Class B, C, D or E4 – follow the new Wave 5 roll-out of airport grid boundaries. Request an appropriate authorization and follow the guidelines, most importantly, stay below 400 agl. Out of a matter of interest to those who don’t really understand our controlled airpace in and around controlled airports, commercial aircraft will fly either an electronic or GPS guided approach with an approx 3 degree glide slope even on sunny days when you might be flying your drone. Aircraft can be as low as 300 feet when still a mile from the runway (600 feet at 2 miles) (900 at 3 miles) – I think everyone gets the picture. Flying a drone above 400 feet especially on approach and departure corridors is the recipe for a potential disaster.
