Unwrapping a drone this holiday season?
Before you fly, review the steps below to make sure your first flight is a success.
December 22, 2016 – Last Christmas the FAA estimated that over 1 million individuals received a drone as a gift. This year, that number is expected to rise.
The continued popularity of drones, coupled with increased selection and lower prices, means a fair share of holiday gifts will include a drone.
However, with that gift comes responsibility.
So, what exactly do first time flyers need to do before taking that drone out for a spin? Read on to find out.
Register your drone
Whether a drone is for commercial purposes or simply for fun, it must be registered with the FAA. Any drone weighing between 0.55 lbs. and 55 lbs. must be registered. The registry helps create accountable flyers and safer skies. Any time you fly, make sure you bring your registration information with you. Think of it like a fishing license, it doesn’t do you much good sitting at home. Registration costs $5 and it is a much cheaper than paying a fine up to $27,500 in civil penalties for flying unregistered. Unregistered drones, coupled with criminal penalties, are far steeper and could cost an operator up to $250,000. Save yourself the stress and risk; take 5 minutes, spend $5 and register your drone with the FAA.Know the rules
The rules for hobbyist drone operators are quite simple:- Keep it low – never fly above 400 feet
- Keep it in sight – keep visual contact of your drone at all times
- Keep it away – never fly over people
- Keep it legal – fly according to community-based guidelines
- Give notice – if you’re flying within 5 miles of an airport