Image Credit: United Parcel Service of America, Inc. Many companies have been trying to get drone delivery off the ground for a long time. Major companies like Amazon and Alphabet have been racing to create their own drone delivery service, but it was UPS that experienced a breakthrough. UPS is a major logistics and package delivery company headquartered in Atlanta, and these past few years, they have been making great strides towards drone package delivery becoming a reality, and it’s finally paid off! Drones have already proven themselves capable of carrying a variety of payloads, but it’s the legality of performing the service that has been the biggest concern for companies looking to take advantage. It wasn’t until the FAA’s UAS Integration Pilot Program (IPP) brought UPS and the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) together that it finally took flight. Video Credit: United Parcel Service of America, Inc. Starting with research and planning, then elevating to the first commercial drone delivery, UPS and NCDOT’s collaboration culminated in the new Part 135 certificate. We can now say that commercial drone delivery has officially taken flight! U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao described the decision as "a big step forward in safely integrating unmanned aircraft systems into our airspace, expanding access to healthcare in North Carolina and building on the success of the national UAS Integration Pilot Program to maintain American leadership in unmanned aviation." UPS Flight forward, a subsidiary of UPS, announced on October 1st that they received "the U.S. government’s first full Part 135 Standard certification to operate a drone airline." As a result of the effort they put forth in the UAS Integration Pilot Program, the FAA approved a Part 135 operating certificate which allows them to commercially deliver packages via multiple drones. Image Credit: United Parcel Service of America, Inc. There are certificates available for four types of Part 135 operations: (1) Part 135 Single Pilot, (2) A Single Pilot in Command certificate is a limited part 135 certificate, (3) A Basic operator certificate is limited in the size and scope of their operations, and (4) A Standard operator holds a certificate with no limits on the size or scope of operations. Now, UPS isn’t the only business with Part 135 certification. In April of this year, Wing Aviation, LLC was awarded their certification, and the FAA is looking over seven other applications submitted by IPP operators and an FAA Partnership for Safety Plan (PSP) participant. To be certified for commercial drone deliveries, they'll have to go through the five phases of the Part 135 certification process: Pre-application, Formal Application, Design Assessment, Performance Assessment, Administrative Functions. Currently, obtaining Part 135 certification is the only way a business can perform commercial drone deliveries. Regardless, UPS is showing no signs of slowing down with several plans in the works to build on drone delivery. Their goals include expanding this service to other hospital campuses and eventually other products. They also plan to partner with drone manufacturers and hire more team members. Image Credit: United Parcel Service of America, Inc. On October 7th, the UPS twitter account revealed that they had put together an all-female drone flight crew to be the leaders of drone flights with the UPS Flight Forward team. The members of this crew are Sherri Roberts, Candice McHargue and Caroline Furse. I am a writer and an artist based in Georgia. Specializing in illustration, graphic design, and video art, I love to explore the new ways technology intersects with art. I think drones have done amazing things for photography and video art, making what would previously be costly and difficult more accessible. As a complete novice, it was only recently that I saw what independent artists could do with their drones, and I continue to be impressed by the sights that drones are able to explore and the images they can capture. Instagram: @tyesha.ferron #UPS #dronedelivery #Part135 #Part135Certification #FAA #integrationpilotprogram #UPSFlightForward #commercialdronedelivery #NCDOT #ElaineLChao #UASIntegrationPilotProgram

Image Credit: The Federal Aviation Administration In June, we posted an article breaking down what the Low Altitude Authorization and Capability (LAANC) system is and how it works. To recap, LAANC is the first partnership under the FAA UAS Data Exchange, which they describe to be “an innovative, collaborative approach between government and private industry facilitating the sharing of airspace data between the two parties.” In other words, it bridges the gap between commercial pilots and airports by allowing drone companies to share and receive authorization information, ensuring that air traffic professionals are informed when drones are flying near airports. Since its primary purpose is to function as a partnership that assists in integrating UAS into the National Airspace System, specifically by processing requests from pilots, the FAA works with drone businesses to make this system more efficient. Well-known businesses like AirMap, DJI, Kittyhawk, Project Wing, and Skyward have entered into an agreement with the FAA and have become approved LAANC UAS Service Suppliers. Image Credit: Wix Stock Library Video Credit: The Federal Aviation Administration Previously, LAANC services were exclusive to commercial UAV usage. As of July 23rd, 2019, the LAANC system now includes recreational flyers, expanding opportunities for safe drone operation. In an update to their web page, the FAA states, “The LAANC capability is available to pilots operating under the Small UAS Rule Part 107, OR under the exception for Recreational Flyers.” Also on the LAANC web page, the FAA has provided an easy to read table of approved service suppliers. Currently, only three suppliers are approved for recreational flyers, but be sure to check back every now and again as the table will be updated as more partners are approved. The page was last updated on August 09, 2019. Image Credit: The Federal Aviation Administration I am a writer and an artist based in Georgia. Specializing in illustration, graphic design, and video art, I love to explore the new ways technology intersects with art. I think drones have done amazing things for photography and video art, making what would previously be costly and difficult more accessible. As a complete novice, it was only recently that I saw what independent artists could do with their drones, and I continue to be impressed by the sights that drones are able to explore and the images they can capture. Instagram: @tyesha.ferron #laanc #LAANC #LowAltitudeAuthorizationandNotificationCapabi #AirMap #DJIGoggles #Kittyhawk #ProjectWing #Skyward #FAA #FederalAviationAdministration #airtraffic #part107 #FAAUASDataExchange

Image Credit: The Federal Aviation Administration There has been another major update in the LAANC systems. As a quick recap: LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) is the first partnership under the FAA UAS Data Exchange. Its main goal is to bridge the gap between pilots and airports by allowing companies to share and receive authorization information, ensuring that air traffic professionals are informed when drones are flying under 400 feet near airports (controlled airspace). As of July 23rd, the LAANC system includes recreational flyers, expanding opportunities for safe drone operation. Image Credit: Wix Stock Gallery On November 21st, the FAA announced that they were expanding LAANC to four more airports. The four newly active airports are the Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport in Maryland, Dulles International Airport in Virginia, William P. Hobby Airport in Texas, and Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey. A list of all the airports that are covered by LAANC is available on the FAA website. In addition to more airports, the FAA has added seven more companies to their list of approved LAANC service providers. These new additions are Airspacelink, Avision, Botlink, Collins Aerospace, Drone Up, Simulyze, and Skygrid. A list of all 21 companies that have been approved to be LAANC UAS service suppliers is also available on the UAS Data Exchange page on the FAA website. I am a writer and an artist based in Georgia. Specializing in illustration, graphic design, and video art, I love to explore the new ways technology intersects with art. I think drones have done amazing things for photography and video art, making what would previously be costly and difficult more accessible. As a complete novice, it was only recently that I saw what independent artists could do with their drones, and I continue to be impressed by the sights that drones are able to explore and the images they can capture. Instagram: @tyesha.ferron #LAANC #LowAltitudeAuthorizationandNotificationCapabi #airport #FAAUASDataExchange #FAA #FederalAviationAdministration #BaltimoreWashingtonInternationalThurgoodMarsha #DullesInternationalAirport #WilliamPHobbyAirport #NewarkLibertyInternationalAirport #Airspacelink #Avision #Botlink #CollinsAerospace #DroneUp #Simulyze #Skygrid

Image Credit: Federal Aviation Administration Early last year, we reported that the FAA was making major moves towards implementing a remote ID system. Since 2017, the FAA has been trying to figure out how to go about remotely identifying and tracking drones in flight. On December 20th, 2018, the FAA issued a Request for Information (RFI) for a remote ID system, which closed on February 4th, 2019. Then, on December 31st, the FAA issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for remote identification of UAS. The FAA’s main reasoning for proposing this system is the potential safety benefits of being able to identify and track the thousands of drones currently in operation. On the FAA’s web page for UAS Remote Identification, they state, “Remote ID would assist the FAA, law enforcement, and Federal security agencies when a UAS appears to be flying in an unsafe manner or where the drone is not allowed to fly.” This Notice of Proposed Rulemaking is available for anyone to read in the Federal Register, which can be accessed through their official website. There, on the document’s page, you can read the rule’s purpose and what it would entail. Image Credit: FederalRegister.gov On that same page, concerned citizens can also voice their opinions by submitting a formal comment. As of the writing of this article, there are over 10,000 public comments posted. The comment period for this proposed rule ends on March 2, 2020. If you’re having trouble, Regulations.gov also has a document of tips for writing an effective comment. Some drone pilots are against the idea of remote tracking. For example, a hobbyist started their comment by stating, “Remote ID for hobbyists is a ridiculous and draconian regulatory overreach that will serve no purpose other than essentially ending an enjoyable hobby.” Another commenter, while not against the system, was concerned about the parameters. Their comment includes a request: “Please add an exception for flying over your own property or legally leased grazing land, including an extra 100ft (whatever) around the perimeter for when checking fence lines. Please omit the horizontal range limit and visual site line requirement when over your own/leased property.” Image Credit: FederalRegister.gov Regardless of your position, this rule's potential impact is evident. If you want to let the public and the FAA know how you feel about the proposed remote identification rule, there's still time to submit a formal comment. You can read the rule for yourself here or comment here. I am a writer and an artist based in Georgia. Specializing in illustration, graphic design, and video art, I love to explore the new ways technology intersects with art. I think drones have done amazing things for photography and video art, making what would previously be costly and difficult more accessible. As a complete novice, it was only recently that I saw what independent artists could do with their drones, and I continue to be impressed by the sights that drones are able to explore and the images they can capture. Instagram: @tyesha.ferron #ProposedRule #RemoteID #remotedroneidentification #remoteidentification #FAA #FederalAviationAdministration #NoticeofProposedRulemaking #comment #FederalRegister #hobbyist #droneregulation

Image Credit: DJI DJI’s newest consumer drone offers a perfect balance between value and quality, making it a great intermediate option between higher-end prosumer drones like the Mavic 2 Pro or the Inspire Series and less expensive selfie drones like the Spark. Up until now, the Mavic Air was the drone that hit this sweet spot. But the Mavic Air 2 beats its predecessor in every way that counts, offering a much longer flight time, better camera, and smarter features for those looking to take high quality aerial stills and video. This means that any drone videographer looking for a new platform in this price range will probably overlook the original for the newest model, even if it does cost a few hundred dollars more. Mavic Air 2 Offers Low Price, High Value One of the most striking things about the Mavic Air 2 is its low price point. Image Credit: DJI Pictures and information about DJI drones are almost always leaked before they get released but the Mavic Air 2 may have seen the most leaks ever, with not only images but the entire quick start manual leaked out of Brazil a week before it launched. Using this information, writers in the drone industry guessed that the Mavic Air 2 would be priced between $1,000 and $1,200, since its features landed it squarely between the Mavic 2 Pro ($1,599) and the Mavic Air ($599). But the price is $799—a great value for everything that comes with it. Image Credit: DJI Mavic Air 2’s Main Features Here are the standout features of the Mavic Air 2: Longer flight time Using new battery technology, new motors, and an improved design, the Mavic Air 2 can stay in the air for up to 34 minutes—13 minutes longer than the Mavic Air’s max flight time of 21 minutes. Improved camera The camera on the Mavic Air 2 comes with a ½” sensor—a noticeable if not ground-breaking step up from the original’s 1/2.3” sensor—and has the following features: Video—shoots video in 4K at 60 fps and records video at 120 Mbps bitrate (up from 100 on the Mavic Air). Stills—captures 12- and 48-Megapixel images (the Mavic Air only offers 12MP). 48-MP images are enabled by a Quad Bayer color filter array, which is the same tech used in many Android smartphones, allowing you to capture highly detailed high-res stills. Slow-motion—slow-mo 1080p video at 120 and 240 fps. New Smart Options The Mavic Air 2 comes with new smart features to help pilots get incredible aerial shots, including: SmartPhoto—this brand new feature automatically recognizes a scene and optimizes the camera’s settings for it, letting you point and shoot just as you can with a smartphone. It includes HyperLight for low-light settings and general object recognition for things that appear in the shot, like sunsets, trees, or snow. HDR—comes with several HDR (High Dynamic Range) features, including HDR video with a max resolution of 4K 30fps and HDR panorama. APAS—proprietary detect and avoid system from DJI created to support autonomous flying, with flight path algorithms designed to create smooth transitions around objects. ActiveTrack 3.0—automatically follow a subject with ActiveTrack, with new improvements in the 3.0 version that include the ability to re-track a subject if they temporarily disappear behind an object; 8K HyperLapse—this is the first time a drone has offered 8K hyperlapse ever, allowing for new opportunities to capture incredible footage. A note on the last feature listed above—according to DroneDJ, there are several issues with the Mavic Air 2’s 8K HyperLapse. A firmware update is supposed to come out right around now that should address some of them, but for now it seems like the claim that the Mavic Air 2 is the first drone to offer 8K HyperLapse may be premature. Watch this video from DJI to learn more about the Mavic Air 2: #drones #Mavic2Air #MavicAir2 #Review #DroneReview

Image Credit: Wix Stock Library John Hopkins Medicine defines Social Distancing as “deliberately increasing the physical space between people to avoid spreading illness.” They go on to state that staying a minimum of six feet away from other people can decrease your chances of catching COVID-19. To prevent the outbreak from continuing to grow, areas have gone on lockdown, canceling events, closing non-essential businesses, and overall just encouraging people to stay indoors. Despite these measures and the advice given by health officials and governing bodies, there are still people gathering in large groups and going about their days as normal. This, unfortunately, is counterproductive to people’s efforts to prevent the spread of the virus and protect each other, especially those who are immunocompromised and the elderly. To combat this, police forces in different countries are relying on drones to alert citizens and urge those still going outside to stay at home. Video Credit: Wall Street Journal According to the South China Morning Post, Chinese authorities have been working with industrial UAV companies Shenzhen Smart Drone UAV Co., Ltd. and Shenzhen MicroMultiCopter Aero Technology to adapt drones to alleviate the outbreak. In many cities, China is enforcing “ the world’s largest quarantine,” equipped with thermal sensors, loudspeakers, zoom lenses and flood lights for disease detection and crowd management. The Madrid Municipal Police in Spain is following suit by also deploying drones equipped with cameras and loudspeakers. Their aim is to advise citizens on the street to go home, which they posted about on Twitter on March 14th. Using quadcopters has been helpful in navigating areas like parks, which are only accessible by pedestrians. Furthermore, the speakers allow the officers to disseminate information widely via radio while the cameras are being used to locate people who are out and about. Video Credit: No Comment TV (euronews) Now we are seeing similar techniques being used in France. The French government has advised its citizens to stay at home and only leave for essentials such as getting food, going to work, or seeking medical help. Similar to other places, France is seeing many people underestimating the seriousness of the COVID-19 outbreak and not adhering to their government’s confinement order. Police in Nice, also known as the French Riviera city, are working with a local private drone operator to fly a drone equipped with a loudspeaker over popular locations to remind their citizens the same thing: STAY INSIDE. There are plans to obtain a second drone to be used in Cannes. I am a writer and an artist based in Georgia. Specializing in illustration, graphic design, and video art, I love to explore the new ways technology intersects with art. I think drones have done amazing things for photography and video art, making what would previously be costly and difficult more accessible. As a complete novice, it was only recently that I saw what independent artists could do with their drones, and I continue to be impressed by the sights that drones are able to explore and the images they can capture. Instagram: @tyesha.ferron #coronavirus #COVID19 #outbreak #quarantine #confinement #policedrone #France #Spain #China #Shenzhen #quadcopter #socialdistancing #selfisolating

Location: Buxton, Maine Tell us about yourself. My name is Ryan, but I'm known as Mako Reactra in the FPV community. I fly drones FPV, first person view, from behind goggles. The goggles allow me to see what the drone sees as if I'm sitting in its cockpit. Once your goggles are on, you forget about everything around you and experience the beauty of nature with what feels like all of your senses. For this reason, I not only race but also fly freestyle. Freestyle flight, to me, is performance art, which is funny because I’ve never considered myself an artist. The angles and flow that can be achieved in flight are like a dance with nature. A glassy, calm lake, golden hour’s sunlight peeking through a tree canopy, and the snaking waterways of a marsh. This performance edit is a dance recital of some of my favorite moments in which sometimes nature took the lead. What inspired you to begin flying drones, and what made you want to enter the industry as a drone pilot? I started flying drones to better appreciate the beauty around me. With FPV, I can experience places as if I'm there, but from behind the goggles. It's incredible to feel like you have no boundaries. You can travel to such extreme places with your feet planted. I entered the male-dominated sport of drone racing because the adrenaline that comes from sending these machines through obstacle courses is enthralling! One of my favorite parts of drone racing is the competition — but the competition I set for myself. The feeling of setting a goal and achieving it is so satisfying, to see that your training and efforts have produced results. Role-modeling this for my elementary students is important to me. What were you doing before you started flying drones, and what made you make the transition? I have been an elementary school teacher for over 13 years. I teach and fly drones. I try to bridge these passions whenever I can. My husband and I present annually at my school's Makers and Mathletes Event. We show the public, especially the youth, our incredible hobby. We organize demo races, teach students how their learning in school connects to drones, and help kids try flying a Tiny Whoop for themselves. What drones are you currently flying, and what drone accessories do you love? I design, build, and repair my racing and freestyle FPV drones. My outdoor racing setup: Diatone GTM5 Racing Frame Flightone Skitzo RevoltOSD running FalcoX Hobbywing XRotor 60A 4in1 ESC Hobbywing 2207 2450kv XRotor Pro Race Motors Runcam Racer 2 FPV Camera Azurepower JohnnyFPV Propellers Ovonic 4s and 5s Batteries Team Blacksheep Crossfire Receiver Team Blacksheep Unify Pro32 Nano VTX Goggles: I use the Fatshark HDO goggles wrapped in a NXGraphics skin. Transmitter: My transmitter is a wrapped Spektrum Dx9. I have a full-sized Crossfire module on my transmitter that extends my flying range. What is your favorite feature on your drone and why? Attached to my goggles is the ImmersionRC Power Play, which not only powers my goggles, but records DVR of my flights. The video quality is improved over goggle DVR, but, more importantly, it has a screen attached. While I fly, people around me are able to experience FPV by watching this screen. Have you learned any valuable lessons from being in the drone industry that you can share with our female drone community? I learned the value in making mistakes because this hobby or sport can be unforgiving at times. You're going to put your props on wrong, you'll probably plug it at the wrong time, and even roast a part while building. Look at the mistakes as an opportunity to learn and practice more. A well-known motto in the FPV community is "Build, fly, crash, repeat." This is true for even the best of pilots. Whether it’s from a creative, commercial or humanitarian perspective, tell us about your most memorable drone flight you have piloted thus far. One of my most memorable drone experiences was when I traveled to Gridlife Road, Atlanta, to get drone footage while chasing professional race car drivers, who were going over 100 miles per hour. Sending my drone at such high speeds in close proximity to those cars was exhilarating. The smoke from drifts and the sounds of the race cars and drones together were incredible. What would you say to women and girls about the drone industry to spark their interest in getting involved? To spark their interest in drone racing … I'd say, it's fun to beat the boys. What excites you most about more women joining the drone industry? I’m excited to bring my experiences in FPV to the Women Who Drone community. The community has lots of talented aerial photography pilots. Many of them are interested in learning more about FPV, so I hope I can be a resource. Do you have any drone tips & tricks you can share with our audience? My advice for those starting would be to begin by flying micro drones. The smaller, indoor drones that I race called Whoops (or Tiny Whoops) are great for beginners. They're both durable and safe because the props are ducted. Just don't get one stuck in your hair, haha. Another way to practice is by using a simulator on the computer. There are some great options out there, like Drone Racing League Simulator (DRL) and Velocidrone. The best part is that when you fly SIM, you don't have to worry about damaging your drone! Keep in mind that SIM feels differently than flying a real drone, but it can be a fun way to get used to the controls. I actually fly better in real life. Last, but certainly not least, find your local flying group. Look for Facebook groups or MultiGP race chapters. The FPV community can be incredibly supportive of one another. There's always a pilot offering up their quad to fly or their extra goggle battery. They help those needing to repair their drone or to prepare for the next race round. My local flying group is a community, a family of fliers. I love their wild ideas and ambitions. Watching them come to fruition is always inspiring. What's the best way for our readers to get in touch with you? Instagram: Mako Reactra Youtube: Mako Reactra Email: ryan.lessard@gmail.com Is there anything else you would like our readers to know about you? My father passed his wings on to me. He shared my love of flight maintaining the SR71 Blackbird in the US Air Force. I didn’t pick up a drone until after he passed, but it somehow makes me feel closer to him every time I fly. Ryan Lessard has been in over 80 MultiGP club races. She competed in the 2019 FAI US Team Qualifier and came in 2nd place in the female category. She continued to train that summer and flew the MultiGP Global Qualifier course set up by my local race chapter. Over 1,100 pilots worldwide flew the course and were ranked globally. Lessard’s ranking got her invited to compete in the 2019 MultiGP Nationals Sportsman Class in Daytona Beach, Florida. She was one of three women who attended this full weekend of racing. Lessard has been a panelist at the NYC Drone Film Festival and a judge for the “Ripping Ovaries” FPV Female Freestyle Drone Competition. She also appeared on the Let’s Drone Out podcast — episode #175, “Drone Girls Night 2,” and episode #185, “Making Reactors with Mako Reactra.” Lessard is sponsored by FPV gear companies Hobbywing, Azure Power, Flightone, Runcam, Diatoneand Ovonic. She is also an ambassador for Women Who Drone and AirvuzFPV. #RyanLessard #MakoReactra #fpvracing #FPV #droneracing #racinggoggles #MultiGP #FAI #TinyWhoop #FirstPersonView

Company: Birds Eye of Big Sky | Pilot EQ Location: Kalispell, Montana Tell us about yourself. My name is Danielle, and many know me as a professional drone pilot. Although I deeply adore technology, my heart has a calling to share inspiring stories and discuss the power of psychology. A lot of my time is spent flying drones and capturing video for high-end companies, or preparing for my yoga classes/workshops which hold an emphasis on yoga therapeutics and meditation. I have been building a drone training company that focuses on crash reduction techniques and will be expanding training options and trademarks this year. More recently, I have been offering myself as a life coach and decision-making mentor to others and am partnering with an adventure therapist in providing couples therapy retreats and workshops. I love the outdoors, food, and connecting with others on an authentic and vulnerable level. What inspired you to begin flying drones, and what made you want to enter the industry as a drone pilot? I went to school to study psychology and obtained a minor in photography. I have been capturing photography for the past 13 years, and back in 2012, my business partner knew how to build and fly drones but needed someone to manage editing and delivering media to his clients. He brought me on as an editor and camera operator, and I started flying mini drones and building racing drones as a hobbyist. As soon as the Part 107 came out, I became a commercial UAS pilot. My first paid job as a UAS pilot was for HBO, focusing on a documentary with Jane Fonda. Just a few months ago, I was in Iceland with National Geographic and Google for a VR project that has been recognized as a Top 25 VR Video on YouTube by Forbes magazine. It’s truly incredible to look back and see how everything has evolved! A drone view of the Wyoming and Montana border (photo by Danielle de Leon) What were you doing before you started flying drones, and what made you make the transition? Before flying drones, I was a dispensary tender, a yoga instructor, and photographer. The transition happened by being in the right place at the right time and because of who I was connected with. What drones are you currently flying, and what drone accessories do you love? I currently fly DJI and Freefly aircraft, specifically. I appreciate the ease of my Mavic 2 Pro, yet I love the flight aerodynamics of the ALTA 8. My favorite drone accessories would have to be polarizers and screen hoods to block out glare. What is your favorite feature on your drone and why? The best drone features are being able to take photos while recording video simultaneously, along with the Hyperlapse plug-in on DJI, which is fantastic. It’s amazing to see the 3D models that can be created with other AI programs. The technology around drones has come so far since 2012. What drone images are you most proud of and why? The images I am most proud of are ones I took around where I live – in Montana. The video I am most proud of is in the VR projects I have worked on. It all takes me back to those special moments of capturing and what it took to get me there. Have you learned any valuable lessons from being in the drone industry that you can share with our female drone community? A thousand-mile adventure all begins with one step in the right direction. Go with your gut, hold yourself to high standards, and go with the flow by living in the moment. Whether it’s from a creative, commercial or humanitarian perspective, tell us about your most memorable drone flight you have piloted thus far. I was in Iceland this past May filming a VR project with National Geographic and Google, focusing on a Nat Geo Explorer Glaciologist, M. Jackson. After filming some kayaking in winding rivers, I came into land on my flight cage (since the aircraft can’t have landing gear on it while filming with VR cameras). The landing was so smooth and graceful that the director gave me the nickname, “Velvet Fingers.” It absolutely was a highlight flight for me since I had been prepping so much mentally and physically for that successful experience in my landings. A drone image of the Jökulsárlón glacier in Iceland (drone photo by Danielle de Leon) What would you say to women and girls about the drone industry to spark their interest in getting involved? Flying drones can help women refine the balance between leadership and listening, authoritative command and integrating direction. The sense of self that comes from being a UAS pilot can evoke a deep experience of confidence and self-awareness. What excites you most about more women joining the drone industry? Women have a special ability in bridging creative thinking with technical understanding. We can provide an unparalleled sense of companionship and care to our crew members in the aviation industry and others that drones can be applied to. Danielle de Leon flying a Freefly Systems ALTA 8 Octocopter with the Insta 360 Pro 2 360 Virtual Reality camera attached (photo taken by Sherpas Cinema director Dave Mossop). This is the drone she flew for the National Geographic and Google 360 VR project titled “Into Water: Glacier’s Glaciers.” Do you have any drone tips & tricks you can share with our audience? Start with something attainable, such as a mini drone, to practice the fundamentals of flying. Try not to get distracted with taking photos and videos before you understand how to control your aircraft without using the camera. Contact me for more tips on flight simulations worth practicing! What’s the best way for our readers to get in touch with you? Feel free to reach out to me via Instagram (@mssdeleon @birdseyeofbigsky @uascoach @thehumanapparatus) or Facebook (Danielle de Leon, Birds Eye of Big Sky, Pilot EQ)! Is there anything else you would like our readers to know about you? The sky is not the limit – your belief system is. Alongside the topics of cancer, consciousness, and high performance drone flights, Danielle's journey has been unlike any other. Recognized as one of the few large UAV aircraft pilots in the US, she has worked with National Geographic, Google, UN Women, BBC, HBO, and others. Her love for psychology, visual aesthetics, yoga, and flying drones has blossomed into a few different companies. One of them specifically focuses on training new drone pilots how to pilot intelligently with crash reduction techniques: Pilot EQ. Danielle is using this training company to specifically study the connection between flying drones and Emotional Intelligence (self awareness, social awareness, self discipline, and social discipline). Some know Danielle as a professional UAS pilot, others may know her as a certified Iyengar yoga instructor, and some even refer to her as a life coach or decision making mentor. #photography #femaledronepilot #bussinesswomen #nationalgeographic #natgeo #Google #DJIMavic #DJI #Freefly #DJIMavic2Pro

Video Credit: TODAY For a few years now, companies have been relying on drones and drone pilots to inspect buildings and properties rather than risk sending in a human inspector to do so. We’ve discussed drone inspections a few times before on this blog (e.g. drones used as insurance inspectors, Flyabilitiy’s caged inspection drone, and the University of Zurich’s foldable drone) and discovered that drones have proven themselves to be safer and more effective than traditional inspection methods. This driving industries like real estate, construction, and insurance to switch. Recently, the issue of having an effective method of performing building inspections was brought up in New York City following tragic circumstances. Last year, a well-respected architect was killed by debris that fell from 729 Seventh Ave., a 17-story office building. According to NY Daily News, the building had already received violations for its facade, specifically describing “damaged terra cotta at areas above 15th floor in several locations which pose a falling hazard for pedestrians.” Because of this tragic event, drones have been brought to the forefront of city politics. Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams expressed a desire for the City Department of Buildings to update their methods with new technology, but he believes that the police are obstructing the city's progress. He compared the current manner of doing things to using an eight-track "in an iPod century". Image Credit: Wix Stock Library This also led to discussions about the 71-year old statute that we discussed in another article. As a brief recap, Provision 435-16.0 is a statute that was enacted in 1948, and it prevents drones from taking off and landing within the city. Thus, those whose work or businesses would greatly benefit from drone use are unable to take advantage of their benefits. A demonstration with a DJI drone was planned to show citizens how drones can be an asset in facade protection, but due to this statute, Brennan could only demonstrate the drone’s camera features. NY Daily News also reported that Councilman Justin Brennan has put forth legislation that would require the city to use drones to inspect buildings like 729 Seventh Ave “within 48 hours of receiving a 311 complaint, or after the Department of Buildings issues a violation”. He, along with supporting councilmen and President Adams intend to “raise the drone legislation with the city Department of Buildings at a Feb. 1 hearing.” I am a writer and an artist based in Georgia. Specializing in illustration, graphic design, and video art, I love to explore the new ways technology intersects with art. I think drones have done amazing things for photography and video art, making what would previously be costly and difficult more accessible. As a complete novice, it was only recently that I saw what independent artists could do with their drones, and I continue to be impressed by the sights that drones are able to explore and the images they can capture. Instagram: @tyesha.ferron #droneinspection #droneinspectors #This70YearOldStatuteisStiflingDroneUsein #safety #newyorkcity #newyork #dji #legislation #locallaw #Flyability #foldabledrone #assetinspection #industrialinspection #buildinginspection

Photo Courtesy of Meghan Kirkwood Company: Washington University Location: St. Louis, Missouri Tell us about yourself. I am a photography professor and a landscape photographer. Most of my work looks at environments that have been shaped or transformed by infrastructure development. As an artist, I'm interested in how landscape images can support public discussion and reflection about land use and land management decisions. Otherwise, when I'm not working I spend most of my time running and training for marathons. I also like to tell people that while I've lived in the Midwest for the past six years, I'm originally from New Hampshire and am a pretty dyed-in-the-wool New Englander. What inspired you to begin flying drones, and what made you want to enter the industry as a drone pilot? I started flying drones because I wanted to teach my students to fly drones. I felt like drones would become an increasingly big part of the photography and imaging landscape, and I wanted my students to gain experience working with aerial imaging and capture devices. After I got started and continued to educate myself about the field, I found myself involved in so many interesting projects and am excited to see how I can continue to work in the field. What were you doing before you started flying drones, and what made you make the transition? Before I was flying drones I was teaching photography from the ground-level. Photo courtesy of Meghan Kirkwood What drones are you currently flying, and what drone accessories do you love? In my classes, I work with the Mavic Pro 2 and for my own work I either use that model or a Phantom Pro 4 V2. What is your favorite feature on your drone and why? I think my favorite feature is obstacle avoidance. It’s pretty helpful when teaching new pilots. I’m also a very big fan of all the manual camera controls I have on my drones. What drone images are you most proud of and why? The drone images I’m most proud of are the ones that have come from collaborative projects (photographing bridges, prescribed burns, or landscape surveys) and those that I’ve taken for my own research (e.g. photographing pipeline scars). Photo Courtesy of Meghan Kirkwood Have you learned any valuable lessons from being in the drone industry that you can share with our female drone community? After I started flying drones, I decided that I wanted to try and get my private pilot license. Learning more about aviation - and actually reading through the whole PHAK (Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge) - has helped me develop more thorough safety protocols and checklists, and made me a much better drone pilot. I know not everyone can take a pilot course, but the more you can study non-remote aviation, the better informed you’ll be as a drone pilot. Whether it’s from a creative, commercial or humanitarian perspective, tell us about your most memorable drone flight you have piloted thus far. I think my most memorable drone flight was flying with a group of students in South Africa. None had ever flown before and they were ecstatic with all that they could see from 400 feet above. What would you say to women and girls about the drone industry to spark their interest in getting involved? I’d say that the field is rapidly developing and there are a lot of opportunities for motivated pilots. If you’re excited about flying, there are so many exciting things that you can do. Photo courtesy of Meghan Kirkwood What excites you most about more women joining the drone industry? I’m really excited that there are more women joining the drone industry. I remember reading a year ago (I think) that something like only 5.8% of FAA Part 107 license holders are female? I hope that that number expands exponentially in the coming years. Do you have any drone tips & tricks you can share with our audience? I don’t know if this is a trick, but I try to get my students to practice flying and using 2-axis movements right after they master boxes. The more practice you get making finite and gentle shifts on the controls the better the footage will be. What’s the best way for our readers to get in touch with you? By email (meghan.kirkwood@gmail.com), or instagram DM (@meghan.kirkwood) Is there anything else you would like our readers to know about you? I love meeting and flying with other pilots! If you’re in St. Louis and want to fly, please give a shout! Meghan L.E. Kirkwood is an Assistant Professor of Visual Arts at Washington University in St. Louis, where she teaches Photography, including Drone Photography. She earned a B.F.A. from Rhode Island School of Design in Photography in 2006 before completing her M.F.A. in Studio Art at Tulane University in 2009. She has received numerous fellowships, including funding to participate in artist residencies through the National Parks Service, the Vermont Studio Center, and the Lakeside Lab (Iowa). Kirkwood’s photography has been exhibited throughout the United States, in Europe, and South Africa. #MeghanKirkwood #pilotspotlight #femaledronepilot #StLouis #WashingtonUniversity #photography #dronephotography #art #VisualArts #AssistantProfessor #StudioArt #DJIMavicPro2 #Phantom4ProV20

Image Credit: the Federal Aviation Administration Safety is incredibly important when talking about drones. Drones are steadily being integrated into more aspects of everyday society, and with that comes new safety concerns. If you stay up to date with the Federal Aviation Administration's website (FAA), you can see that regulations regarding the safety of pilots and bystanders are often discussed and adapted as things change. It may not always be fun and exciting, but it’s important to take the safety of yourself and others seriously, especially when flying objects are brought into the mix. To drive this point home, the FAA launched their own drone safety week. Last week (November 4-10, 2019) was the FAA’s first National Drone Safety Awareness Week. Image Credit: Know Before You Fly For this weeklong event, the FAA partnered with the Know Before You Fly educational campaign and the Unmanned Aircraft Safety Team, which hosts the Voluntary Tracking Tool (VTT) where pilots can share their flight plans. Also, Drone Safety Week incorporated a fun feature: a daily focus. “Key sectors have a specific day of the week to focus on an area of interest or expertise: Monday: Public Safety and Security Tuesday: Business – Photography, Real Estate, Insurance Wednesday: Business – Infrastructure and Agriculture Thursday: Business – Commercial and Medical Package Delivery Friday: Education and STEM Saturday and Sunday: Recreational Flyers" Image Credit: Irving Police Department In the realm of social media, those celebrating Drone Safety Week were asked to use the hashtag #DroneWeek to share their safety stories. Check out the #DroneWeek tag to see how people in the drone world have been putting safety into practice. If you want to see even more safety information from the FAA, they also have a YouTube playlist that you can check out here. Video Credit: The Federal Aviation Administration I am a writer and an artist based in Georgia. Specializing in illustration, graphic design, and video art, I love to explore the new ways technology intersects with art. I think drones have done amazing things for photography and video art, making what would previously be costly and difficult more accessible. As a complete novice, it was only recently that I saw what independent artists could do with their drones, and I continue to be impressed by the sights that drones are able to explore and the images they can capture. Instagram: @tyesha.ferron #NationalDroneSafetyAwarenessWeek #dronesafetyweek #safety #FAA #FederalAviationAdministration #KnowBeforeYouFly #UnmannedAircraftSafetyTeam #UAS #STEM #DroneWeek #DroneWeek

Have you ever wanted to carry your drone around in your pocket? How about your travel bag or purse? Well, you’re in luck! DJI’s Mavic family is getting a new member in a small package. Announced Wednesday morning, DJI’s Mavic Mini is a tiny version of everyone’s favorite drone. It fits into the palm of your hand, and according to DJI, it’s almost as light as a smartphone. Despite its small size, this drone boasts some impressive features. Key features advertised include a 30 minute max flight time, 4 km HD video transmission, GPS precise hover, and more. For this release, DJI is also hyping up their new companion app for the Mavic Mini: the DJI Fly app. It features simplified recording and editing tools and a flight tutorial. Creative templates on the video editor make it easy to use for beginners. Image Credit: DJI Technology Co. Of course, the feature that’s creating the most buzz surrounding this drone is its lightweight design. Weighing 249 grams, the Mavic Mini has some people thinking that if they purchase this drone, they won’t have to register it with the FAA, and technically, they’re right! The minimum for a drone to require registration is listed on the FAA website as 0.55 pounds (250 grams). That’s one gram more than the Mavic Mini. However, this technicality doesn’t rule out anyone who intends to use their drone for commercial purposes. Commercial pilots will still have to register their drones and place their registration numbers visibly on the outside. Don’t let that get you down. There is another possible benefit to having such a small drone: a drone of this size and weight would probably streamline the process to get Part 107 certification holders permission to fly over people, making it an item worth investing in. On February 13, 2019, the FAA proposed a rule that would allow UAS to be flown over people in certain conditions. Image Credit: federalregister.gov The document is extensive, but there is a section that states: “The NPA [Notice of Proposed Amendment] introduces categories of permissible small UAS operations based on maximum takeoff masses; the “open” category is most permissive, and proposes a subcategory to permit small UAS operations over uninvolved people, but not over assemblies of people, as long as the aircraft does not exceed 250 grams maximum takeoff mass and does not have sharp edges.” Comments for this rule closed on April 15, 2019. Image Credit: DJI Technology Co. As for pricing, this mini drone will cost you $399, and the Mavic Mini Fly More Combo is $499. The combo includes extra parts such as more batteries, more spare propellers, an extra micro USB cord, and more spare screws. The combo also includes several accessories like the 360° propeller guard, two-way charging hub, DJI 18W USB charger, and a carrying bag. If you’re interested in purchasing the Mavic Mini, it is available for preorder now. Units will begin shipping on November 11th. I am a writer and an artist based in Georgia. Specializing in illustration, graphic design, and video art, I love to explore the new ways technology intersects with art. I think drones have done amazing things for photography and video art, making what would previously be costly and difficult more accessible. As a complete novice, it was only recently that I saw what independent artists could do with their drones, and I continue to be impressed by the sights that drones are able to explore and the images they can capture. Instagram: @tyesha.ferron #MavicMini #mavic #Mavic #DJI #minidrone #DJIMavic #DJIMavicMini #part107certification #part107 #DJIFlyApp #ProposedRule #MavicMiniFlyMoreCombo #newdrone #newproduct