Welcome back to another exciting episode of "Your Drone Questions Answered." In this episode, our host, John Dickow, dives into a crucial topic: the rules and regulations for flying drones at night. He's joined by special guest Cody Retlich, the founder of Drone A Dare and CEO of Midwest Aerial Productions, who provides invaluable insights into nighttime drone operations.In this episode, John and Cody discuss the rules and regulations for flying drones at night. As of 2021, the regulations have changed, allowing both Part 107 and recreational drone pilots to fly at night without a waiver. However, certain requirements must be met, including completing online training and using collision avoidance lighting that is visible up to three statute miles.Cody offers essential tips for flying safely at night, emphasizing the importance of surveying the flight area in daylight to avoid obstacles like guide wires and power lines. He recommends adding additional lights to the drone to illuminate the landing area and make your presence known to others. Additionally, Cody suggests flying at higher altitudes for better obstacle avoidance.For those looking to start a career in drone operations, Cody advises focusing on your strengths and what you enjoy, connecting with fellow drone pilots for collaboration, and seeking out resources and communities like Drone Launch Academy to gain knowledge and experience.

Welcome back to another episode of Your Drone Questions Answered. In this episode, we delve into the world of drone mapping and photogrammetry. John Dickow is joined by Dylan Gorman, a drone expert with over a decade of experience in this field. Dylan shares his insights on the applications and clientele for photogrammetry and mapping services using drones.In this engaging conversation, they discuss the foundational concept of photogrammetry, its applications in various industries, and real-world use cases that highlight the value of drone mapping services. Dylan provides valuable advice for individuals looking to integrate drones into their careers, emphasizing the importance of solving problems and educating clients.If you're interested in learning more about drones and their applications, check out Dylan's YouTube channel and attend his workshops. For a discount on workshop tickets, use the code "DLA25." You can find Dylan's courses and additional resources on his website, www.pilotbyte.com.Don't forget to submit your own questions at ydqa.io or on the Drone Launch Connect community. We look forward to your questions and bringing you more valuable insights in the future. Fly high and stay tuned for the next episode!

Welcome to "Your Drone Questions Answered" with John Dickow from Drone Launch Academy. In this episode, we dive into the importance of Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) for drone pilots. David Young, founder of Drone Launch Academy, joins us to explain TFRs, why they're imposed, and how to stay informed.TFRs are airspace areas where all aircraft, including drones, are prohibited. Violating TFRs can lead to serious consequences, as shown by a recent incident. For instance, during a college football game, the FAA imposed a TFR around the stadium. A drone pilot ignored it, causing disruptions, arrests, and potential criminal charges.David explains that TFRs are issued via NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen) by the FAA. Drone pilots can check the FAA's website or use apps like ALOFT or AirMap for TFR information. It's crucial to follow these rules and regulations. Recreational pilots should take the free TRUST certificate test, while those engaged in commercial work should obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107).The main lesson: Never fly your drone in a TFR. Stay informed and fly responsibly. Submit your drone questions on YDQA.io for more insights and remember to subscribe for future episodes. See you in the skies!

Welcome back to another enlightening episode of Your Drone Questions Answered! In this captivating installment, John Dickow, the host of Drone Launch Academy's informative series, engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Todd Graetz, a prominent figure in the dynamic world of drone technology. Together, they delve into the intricacies of Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations for drones, offering keen insights into the present state, the challenges that lie ahead, and the potential transformative impact on diverse industries.The topic of BVLOS operations has garnered significant attention over the years, and this episode seeks to unravel the mysteries surrounding its widespread adoption. Todd Graetz, a multi-company regulatory drone pioneer with an impressive track record, is the perfect guest to shed light on this complex subject.Throughout this engaging discussion, Todd provides a comprehensive overview of BVLOS, outlining what it entails and how it can be applied in various contexts. BVLOS, he explains, represents the epitome of scalable drone operations and holds the key to realizing the full potential of drone technology in the United States. From package delivery to agriculture, firefighting, infrastructure inspection, and more, BVLOS has the potential to revolutionize countless industries.Todd's involvement in the drone industry dates back to 2013 when he co-founded BNSF Railway's drone program. BNSF Railway stands as one of the largest BVLOS drone operators in the United States and has collaborated closely with the FAA under a cooperative research agreement since 2015. This vast experience and his current roles on FAA committees and as a board member of AUVSI make Todd Graetz a trusted authority on BVLOS.As the conversation unfolds, Todd delves into the heart of the matter—the current challenges facing BVLOS operations. He emphasizes that the primary hurdle is reaching a consensus between incumbent operators and new entrants regarding the operation of drones below 500 feet in congested airspace. The debate centers on equipping aircraft for electronic visibility, and it's a critical issue that must be resolved for BVLOS to become a reality.Todd's insights highlight the urgency of the situation. He stresses that the United States cannot afford to wait another ten years to make BVLOS a reality. If the industry doesn't swiftly reach an agreement and progress with regulatory development, it risks losing its leadership position to other countries. Moreover, the economic and job opportunities that the domestic drone industry could offer might be squandered.However, Todd also brings optimism to the conversation. He believes that with swift action and cooperation, the industry could witness BVLOS operations taking flight within the next year or two. The implications of this development are enormous, from package deliveries to reduced road congestion, BVLOS has the potential to transform society in myriad ways.For aspiring professionals and drone enthusiasts in the audience, Todd offers invaluable advice. He suggests that individuals interested in a career in the drone industry should choose a specialization—either focusing on the flying aspect of drones or specializing in analytics, data collection, and data dissemination. Those specializing in flying should consider obtaining a private pilot license to gain a deeper understanding of airspace and systems.As Todd Graetz aptly puts it, the future of BVLOS is at our doorstep, and it's an exciting time to be part of the drone industry. Stay tuned to Your Drone Questions Answered for more intriguing discussions on the evolving drone landscape and its limitless possibilities!Don't forget to subscribe to our channel and share this episode with fellow enthusiasts and professionals eager to stay informed about the ever-evolving world of drones. Join us as we explore the skies and uncover the endless potential of drone technology!

In this episode of "Your Drone Questions. Answered", John Dickow and Dusty Jolley discuss valuable tips and insights on how to avoid or minimize drone crashes. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced pilot, these tips can help you fly your drone safely and confidently. Learn about selecting the right drone, understanding its features, and handling unexpected situations like low battery or loss of connection. Don't let the fear of crashing hold you back from enjoying the world of drones. Join us for this informative discussion and become a more skilled drone pilot today!Key Points Covered:1. Beginner Drones and Investment:Dusty suggests that crashing is almost inevitable as you progress in your drone journey, especially when starting with cheaper drones lacking advanced features like GPS or altitude hold.While it's tempting to go for very low-cost drones, investing a bit more in a reliable beginner drone, such as DJI's Mini series or considering refurbished units, can provide better stability and safety.2. Pre-flight Checklist:Dusty emphasizes the importance of a pre-flight checklist before leaving for a drone adventure. This includes checking battery levels for the drone, remote, and connected devices like tablets or phones.Ensuring all batteries are fully charged prevents unexpected power issues mid-flight.3. Return to Home Feature:The Return to Home (RTH) function is a lifesaver when your drone is in trouble. Dusty advises users to understand how this feature works.He recommends setting the low battery warning to around 25% to ensure you have ample time to initiate RTH if needed.Users can configure RTH to return to the home point or the remote controller, depending on the situation.4. Understanding Your Surroundings:Before taking off, Dusty recommends using tools like Google Earth to get a bird's eye view of your flying location.Identifying potential obstacles such as trees, buildings, or power lines allows you to plan your flight path better.5. Flying with an FPV Drone:Flying with First-Person View (FPV) drones offers unique challenges. Dusty advises having a visual observer to help maintain situational awareness.Visual observers can assist in avoiding obstacles and maintaining safe distances, especially when the pilot's view is restricted to the drone's camera.6. Drone Community and Sharing Experiences:Dusty highlights the benefits of being part of a drone community like Drone Launch Connect, where pilots can share their successes and failures.The "share your fail" space allows pilots to openly discuss and learn from their mistakes, fostering a supportive and educational environment.7. Overcoming Fear of Crashing:Dusty encourages aspiring drone pilots not to let the fear of crashing deter them from pursuing their passion.Learning to fly drones takes time and practice, and crashes are part of the learning process.By following safety guidelines and gaining experience, the fear of crashing can be gradually overcome.In conclusion, flying drones can be an incredibly rewarding hobby or profession, but it comes with its fair share of challenges. By following Dusty's expert advice and continually improving your skills, you can enjoy safer and more enjoyable flights. Don't let the fear of crashing hold you back—embrace it as an opportunity to learn and grow as a drone pilot.

Welcome back to another episode of "Your Drone Questions Answered"! In today's episode, we answer the question "How can someone get into mapping when DroneDeploy is expensive per month?" To shed light on this, John brings in David Young, the founder of Drone Launch Academy, who shares some insights and alternatives for affordable mapping software.David starts by addressing the rising costs of DroneDeploy and PIX4D and points out that DroneDeploy is now even pricier than before, with an annual subscription costing $6,000 or $600 per month. He suggests that there are alternatives, which might not be as well-known but are more budget-friendly.First, David mentions Maps Made Easy, a California-based company that offers a pay-as-you-go system. You can start small, and as you need more capabilities, purchase credits for processing. Maps Made Easy is a great option for beginners who don't want to break the bank.Next, David introduces Birdi, an Australian company with a similar pay-as-you-go model. Birdie offers affordability and flexibility, making it an excellent choice for those starting out in mapping or looking to save money.David also touches on other alternatives like Reality Capture, primarily for 3D visualizations, and free software tools like Google Earth Pro and QGIS for basic analysis.For students, David highlights the fantastic student pricing offered by PIX4D, making their powerful software much more accessible. Students can get PIX4D Mapper for just $100 per year, a significant discount compared to the regular price.In conclusion, if you're looking for affordable mapping software options, there are alternatives to the pricey DroneDeploy and PIX4D. David's insights provide a roadmap for drone enthusiasts and professionals to find the right solution for their needs.Don't forget to subscribe, like, and share this episode if you found it helpful. If you have your own burning drone questions, submit them at YDQA.io or through the Drone Launch Connect private community. We're here to help you navigate the skies of knowledge!Stay tuned for more insightful episodes, and we'll see you in the sky!

In this episode of "Your Drone Questions Answered" (YDQA), John Dickow engages in a detailed conversation with Jerry Wodka, an experienced law enforcement professional with over 23 years of service. Jerry has also been a drone pilot for more than four years. They explore the multifaceted role of drones in law enforcement and the specific regulations governing their use in the state of Illinois.Jerry Wodka introduces himself and discusses his background in law enforcement, shedding light on his journey from being a police officer to a certified drone pilot. With over two decades of experience in law enforcement, Jerry provides valuable insights into the integration of drones into police operations.The conversation delves into various scenarios where drones prove to be indispensable tools for law enforcement agencies. Jerry highlights the primary use cases, including:Missing Persons Cases: Drones are instrumental in locating missing individuals, whether it's a child who has wandered off or an elderly person in a remote area. The drones equipped with thermal imaging technology are particularly effective in nighttime searches.Search Warrant Execution: When law enforcement obtains a search or arrest warrant, drones can provide critical overwatch during the operation. If a suspect attempts to flee, drones can track and assist in their apprehension.Jerry also emphasizes the importance of adhering to specific limitations and regulations outlined in Illinois law, such as restrictions on random surveillance, personal use, and the prohibition of weaponizing drones. He clarifies that law enforcement drones are equipped with commercially available technology and not specialized military equipment.Furthermore, the discussion covers the drone equipment used by law enforcement, focusing on the DJI Matrice 300, a flagship drone model, and its versatile dual gimbal setup, including the H20T Zenmuse camera and a spotlight accessory. Jerry explains how the spotlight aids in various scenarios, such as illuminating areas of interest during nighttime operations.Transparency and compliance with Part 107 rules are crucial aspects of law enforcement drone operations. Jerry highlights the importance of notifying the local state's attorney's office within 24 hours of a flight, providing transparency to the public and government officials.Jerry shares his journey of getting introduced to drones, starting with a Christmas gift, and how he overcame weather challenges and training commitments to become a skilled drone pilot. He emphasizes the value of practical experience in flying drones and recommends that aspiring pilots get hands-on practice to become proficient.In terms of gaining departmental support for drone initiatives, Jerry mentions that his team at the police department was proactive in launching the program. They gradually expanded their fleet from the DJI Inspire to the Matrice, considering the cost and the need for familiarity among officers. Additionally, they emphasized the importance of Part 107 certification.Jerry concludes the discussion by offering advice to those interested in law enforcement and drones, highlighting the need for a strong foundation in law enforcement before venturing into specialized roles like drone piloting. He encourages individuals to stay informed about Part 107 rules and seek opportunities for further training and education.As this conversation only scratches the surface of the extensive topic of drones in law enforcement, John expresses the intention to bring Jerry back for future discussions to explore more in-depth aspects of drone use within the field.If you have questions or seek more information about drones in law enforcement, you can submit your queries at ydqa.io or within the Drone Launch Connect community. Stay tuned for upcoming episodes that provide valuable insights into the world of drones. See you in the sky!

In this episode of "Your Drone Questions Answered," host John Dickow interviews Kevin Olson, an FAA certified licensed commercial drone pilot and owner of Maryland Drone Guy. They discuss how drones are used in photography and videography. Kevin shares insights into his drone journey and business. He talks about his transition from a drone hobbyist to a professional drone pilot, the drones he uses for his work, and how he sets his pricing structure. Kevin also provides valuable advice for those looking to start their own drone business. Don't miss this informative and inspiring conversation with Kevin Olson, the Maryland Drone Guy.Visit Kevin's website: https://www.marylanddroneguy.com/Submit your drone questions at YDQA.io or through the Drone Launch Connect community.

Welcome to another episode of Your Drone Questions Answered! In this episode, John Dickow is joined by David Young, the founder of Drone Launch Academy, to discuss a pressing topic: retrofitting existing drones to meet remote ID requirements.As the deadline for compliance approaches, many drone pilots are wondering how to make their older drones remote ID-ready. David breaks down the essential details and options for retrofitting, as well as the challenges you may encounter in the process.Remote ID is a critical development in drone regulations, aimed at enhancing safety and situational awareness. It involves broadcasting a drone's location, the operator's location, takeoff point, and telemetry data. While it's primarily for law enforcement and safety purposes, some have raised privacy concerns.David discusses various retrofitting options, including plug-and-play modules and electronic boards that require more technical know-how. However, he notes that these options are currently backordered, and availability is limited until October 2023.Stay informed and consider taking steps to ensure compliance with remote ID requirements as they become more prevalent. While enforcement may be lenient initially, it's essential to be prepared.Have your own drone questions? Submit them to us at YDQA.io or join the discussion in the Drone Launch Connect community.Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more valuable insights into the world of drones. Fly safe, and we'll see you in the sky!

In this episode, John Dickow of Drone Launch Academy is joined by Jackson Rector, a drone pilot and lidar technician from Wiser Consultants, to talk about Lidar Drone technology. They delve into how it works, its applications, and its significance in various industries.🌐 Connect with Jackson Rector and Wiser Consultants:Jackson Rector: Drone pilot at Wiser ConsultantsWebsite: www.wiserconsultants.com🔍 What's Inside:Jackson Rector's Role at Wiser ConsultantsJackson explains his role as a drone pilot and lidar technician at Wiser Consultants, giving us insight into the behind-the-scenes work that goes into aerial data collection and processing.Lidar Technology ExplainedJackson demystifies the term "lidar," which stands for Light Detection and Ranging. He breaks down how this technology works by emitting laser light points, measuring their return times and distances to create detailed maps and models.Lidar on Drones vs Other PlatformsJohn and Jackson discuss how lidar technology functions across different platforms, including drones, vehicles, and smartphones, highlighting the varied applications and advantages of each.Applications of Lidar TechnologyJackson delves into the diverse applications of lidar technology, focusing on its use in mapping and surveying. He shares examples of projects involving roadways, intersections, and infrastructure improvements, emphasizing the ability to create accurate 3D models.Advice for Aspiring Drone ProfessionalsJackson offers invaluable advice to newcomers in the drone industry, stressing the importance of obtaining a Part 107 certification, honing manual flying skills, and being open to learning various aspects of the field.🛰️ Stay Connected:Stay tuned for more enlightening episodes of Your Drone Questions Answered! Submit your own questions at ydqa.io or through the Drone Launch Connect private community.