
Ask Drone U
We’re Drone U, a group of guys who have turned their passion for flight into a profitable business. We love hearing from our fans, and we love helping by answering their questions. That’s why we started the Ask Drone U podcast in 2015. Since then, we are one of the largest, most popular DAILY drone podcasts out there. Each episode features an actual question submitted from someone just like you! We wish we could answer everyone’s question(s), but we’ll do our best to get through as many of them as we can. So plug in those headphones because it’s time to learn together about everything drone: FAA, insurance, business strategies, videography, drone tips, flight techniques, drone tricks, expert advice, cameras, gimbals, and so much more. #askdroneu
Latest episodes

May 28, 2021 • 11min
ADU 01188: How to Legally Fly Your Drone Over State Parks
Today's question is about flying your drone over state parks.
Our caller for today, Tom from Wisconsin has a question about flying drones over state parks.
The state park that Tom wishes to fly over has a railroad and a residential area in the vicinity. So, firstly, can Tom get the required legal permission to fly over this state park? Do drone laws vary by state? Or is the FAA the ultimate and only authority when it comes to airspace and drone laws? For all this and much more, tune in to our latest show now.
Enjoy! Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF
Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad!
Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.
If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.
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Timestamps
[02:26] Today's question is about flying your drone over state parks
[03:22] Do states have the authority to ban drones?
[03:32] Not sure where you can legally fly? Download our Drone Advocacy Kit to understand the nuances of drone laws
[04:14] Can you take off from private property and fly over a state park?
[05:10] What are the rules for flying a drone over National Parks?
[06:35] Why flying your drone over a railroad is not a good idea

May 27, 2021 • 0sec
ADU 01187: Best American Made Drones that Can Match DJI’s Price and Functionality
Today's show is about American drone manufacturers and the industry dynamics as a whole.
Our caller for today, Gordon is looking for some feasible alternatives to DJI. The US-China trade war and data security concerns have given a fillip to American drone manufacturers, who have, till now been unable to compete with the Chinese behemoth, DJI. And while homegrown manufacturers have managed to get their foot in the door, are they able to match DJI in terms of price and functionality? These are some of the drones that we talk about in today's show:
AirPeak (Sony)
Bobby's Watt's Prism
The Autel Evo II
Parrot Anafi
Vantage Robotics Vesper (cheapest & flies the longest)
Skydio X2
And many, many more...
Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF
Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad!
Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.
If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.
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Timestamps
[01:56]This show is brought to you by our in-person trainings
[02:53]Today's question is about American drone manufacturers and the industry as a whole
[04:25]Have American drone manufacturers priced themselves out of the drone market?
[05:18]Do drone pilots really have any alternative to DJI?
[06:50]Is the power-packed Mavic 2 Enterprise Dual Advanced the best drone you can buy for the money?
[07:15]Mavic 2 Enterprise Dual Advanced vs. Autel Evo 2 - how do they compare?
[08:51]Are there any American drone manufacturers who can match up to DJI in terms of capabilities and specs?
[09:30]Prominent American drone manufacturers who are making a dent in the market
[10:00]How has the ongoing chip shortage affected supply?
[11:38]Have American drone manufacturers failed to come up with the right products for the mass market?
[12:45]The Auterion system that powers most of the American drones
[15:13]Are there any reliable NDAA approved aircraft that can be used commercially
[16:00]A valuable Mini 2 hack to help you out
[22:13]Is the Freefly Astro a feasible option right now?
[23:50]The Quantum Systems Vector Scorpion - is this the right drone for mapping?
[27:00]The TEAL Golden Eagle - another drone manufacturer vying for a slice of the market
[29:50]Parrot Anafi - a drone that doesn't quite live up to its potential
[31:52]What are some of the biggest issues with the Skydio?
[35:09]Why the Freefly Astro is miles ahead of the competition
[37:10]Is the hefty price tag on the Autel Evo 2 Dual justified?

May 12, 2021 • 40min
ADU 01186: Drone Industry Trends for the Rest of 2021 and Beyond
Today's show is about drone industry trends for 2021 and beyond.
Our caller for today, Tom has come up with a great question that will surely interest all you drone enthusiasts out there.
Specifically, with the drone industry in a constant state of flux, Tom is wondering where things are headed in 2021? From micro-drones to recreational flying to the changing dynamics of the American drone manufacturing market, we discuss a lot in today's power-packed show. Some of the things that we discuss today:
How large organizations are reorganizing their drone teams
Why DJI might fight it difficult to maintain its vice-like grip over the American drone market
How will recreational flying evolve in 2021
Will DJI finally replace the Phantom 4 with the much-awaited DJI Mavic 3 in 2021?
Thanks for the great question, Tom. Fly Safe! Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF
Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad!
Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.
If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.
Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community.
Follow Us
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Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu
Timestamps
[01:20]Why drone roof inspections are an untapped opportunity that every drone pilot should explore right NOW
[02:39]Today's question is about industry trends for 2021
[03:33]Organizations looking to expanding their drone teams?
[07:07]FAA's TRUST program to introduce a UAS Safety test for recreational pilots
[09:39]Will the FAA's new TRUST program be applicable to those who fly in FRIA's?
[13:04]Why the Mini 2 is a MUST buy for Part 107 pilots; and, will the FAA introduce a new micro-drone rule in 2021?
[16:09]Why the industry is not likely to step on the gas pedal in 2021
[18:20]Are our drones becoming smaller yet more capable?
[20:13]Will DJI Mavic 3 eventually replace the Phantom 4?
[22:26]A continued flurry of M&A activity within the drone industry
[22:38]Skydio vs. DJI - Will the homegrown, American manufacturer eventually trump the Chinese behemoth?
[23:30]Will security concerns give a fillip to American drone manufacturers?
[28:08]Will we see more LAANC-enabled airports? And, will it become easier to fly in zero grid areas?
[31:38]Drones for STEM education - how this nascent technology can help our students perform better and catch up with their peers
[36:11]How drones teach us spatial awareness

May 6, 2021 • 16min
ADU 01185: Experts Tips for Flying Your Drone in Cold Weather and At High Altitudes
Today's show is about flying your drone in cold weather.
Our caller for today, Shawn from Canada who flies a Mavic 2 Pro. Flying in Canada is particularly challenging because of the cold weather and high altitudes. So, what can Shawn do to get some extra flight time? And, how can he make flying in such difficult conditions a more comfortable experience?
On today's show, we share some nuanced drone battery maintenance tips to help Shawn out. You will learn how you can prevent your iPhone from shutting down in extremely cold weather. Towards the end, we recommend some ND filters that can be used when flying your drone in the snow. This is a show you do not want to miss.
Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF
Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad!
Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.
If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.
Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community.
Follow Us
Site – https://thedroneu.com/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneu
Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/
Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu
Timestamps
[03:08]Today's question is about flying your drone in cold weather, at high altitudes
[05:22]What are some of the biggest problems of flying your drone in cold weather?
[06:43]Drone battery maintenance tips for those flying in extreme weather
[07:00]Heating your iPhone in cold weather
[07:15]Using self-heating batteries for longer flying time
[08:20]How to keep your hands warm when flying in cold weather
[09:25]How often should you deep cycle your batteries?
[13:23]Recommended ND filters for Mavic 2 Pro

May 5, 2021 • 22min
ADU 01184: What is the Best and Most Efficient Workflow for Drone Search And Rescue?
Today, we recommend the optimum workflow for drone search and rescue.
Our caller for today, Karl conducted a drone search and rescue to locate a missing dog. However, unfortunately, it seems that his mission was not really successful. So, on today's show, we reveal the best and most efficient workflow for a moving target. You will learn the four acquisition methods that you can possibly use in drone search and rescue.
And you will also learn how you can use image recognition software to autonomously scan images. We hope you enjoy this show.
Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF
Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad!
Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.
If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.
Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community.
Follow Us
Site – https://thedroneu.com/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneu
Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/
Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu
Timestamps
[00:47]We are launching a new fire safety program soon
[03:48]As the economy picks up, there is renewed demand for drone jobs
[04:43]Our in-person training's are back
[06:45]Today's question is about drone search and rescue
[07:44]Things to consider while doing a drone search and rescue
[08:53]How to autonomously scan images and compress your project time frame
[09:43]The four acquisition methods for a moving target while conducting a search and rescue operation
[11:45]How do you verify that you have captured the entire area with your drone
[13:13]Why Pix4D React is the best software for search and rescue
[14:08]Using image recognition software to analyze images
[16:15]Can you review images in real-time?
[20:15]We sum up today's show

Apr 22, 2021 • 10min
ADU 1183: How Do I Acquire Data If I am Flying My Drone Near a Radio Tower?
Today's show is about flying your drone in an interference heavy environment.
Our caller for today, Greg is unable to fly his Mavic 2 Pro in autonomous flight mode since there is a radio tower in the vicinity. Can Greg still conclude his mapping mission if he is flying in such an interference heavy environment?
On today's show, you will learn how to navigate the complexities of flying in such an environment. We talk about what to do when you experience a radio signal loss, and why you need to master flying in Atti mode to get a leg up on the competition. Enjoy the show. Fly Safe!
Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF
Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad!
Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.
If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.
Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community.
Follow Us
Site – https://thedroneu.com/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneu
Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/
Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu
Timestamps
[02:14]Today's question is about flying your drone near a radio tower in an interference heavy environment
[04:22]Can you fly an autonomous mission in an interference-heavy environment?
[04:55]What should you do when you experience a radio signal loss?
[06:18]If you can't fly in free flight mode due to interference, can you still fly in manual mode?
[08:46]How practice and skill-building can help you make your mark in a competitive space

Apr 21, 2021 • 17min
ADU 01182: Mavic Air 2 vs. Mavic 2 Pro – Which is the Best Drone for Shooting Real Estate?
Mavic Air 2 vs. Mavic 2 Pro - Which is The Best Option for You?
Today's question is about the Mavic Air 2 vs. Mavic Air Pro.
Is it worth paying extra for the Mavic 2 Pro if you are planning to shoot real estate?
Our caller for today, Dominic is keen to start a new drone business and he is willing to make an initial capital investment of $2,000. The drones that he is considering are the Mavic Air 2, and its larger cousin, DJI Mavic 2 Pro.
While the Mavic Air 2 might save Dominic some dollars right now, can he really make his mark in a competitive market space using this beginner drone from DJI? You will learn WHY the Mavic 2 Pro is the best drone that you can buy right now. Additionally, we also share how you can accessorize your Mavic 2 Pro to get a leg up on the competition.
Enjoy! Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF
Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad!
Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.
If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.
Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community.
Follow Us
Site – https://thedroneu.com/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneu
Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/
Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu
Timestamps
[02:33]New courses coming up on the site soon!
[04:25]Today's question is about the Mavic Air 2 vs. the Mavic 2 Pro
[05:35]Sales playbook for real estate
[06:00]Can you use the Mavic Air 2 for real estate? Or, are you better off using bigger drones like the Mavic 2 Pro and Inspire?
[07:34]How to prime your Mavic 2 Pro to run a profitable drone business
[09:04]Using the anamorphic lens to get the movie look
[09:50]Is the Inspire 1 still a good drone to buy?
[13:05]Which is the best drone to fly in windy conditions?

Apr 16, 2021 • 11min
ADU 01181: Can I Sell Footage that I Shot As a Hobby Pilot Now That I Have My Part 107 License?
Once You Get Your Part 107 License, Can You Legally Sell Drone Footage That You Shot As a Hobby Pilot?
Today's show is about selling your drone footage after getting your Part 107 license.
Our caller for today, Keith recently got his Part 107 license. Congratulations, Keith!
Keith has been a hobby pilot for the past five years and has a ton of footage that he can now sell commercially. But, is he legally allowed by the FAA to sell footage that he shot prior to getting his commercial license? Can he get into trouble for doing so? Thanks for the great question, Keith. Fly Safe!
Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF
Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad!
Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.
If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.
Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community.
Follow Us
Site – https://thedroneu.com/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneu
Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/
Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu
Timestamps
[01:30]Today's question is about selling the footage you shot as a recreational pilot
[03:25]Will you get into trouble with the FAA for selling footage that does not conform to Part 107 rules?

Apr 13, 2021 • 16min
ADU 01180: Powerful Branding Strategies for Your Drone Business
Branding and Marketing Strategies to Grow a Drone Business
Today's show is about business strategy and branding.
Our caller for today, Bob is building out a website for his drone business. And while he primarily focuses on the construction industry, Bob is wondering if he should target other verticals as well.
Is it better to go broad? Or is it better to niche down and focus just on your core skill? On today's show, we discuss the pros (and cons) of going broad and offering a range of services.
Paul and Rob draw from their extensive experience and share some excellent branding tips to help Bob out. This is a show you do not want to miss. Enjoy!
Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF
Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad!
Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.
If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.
Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community.
Follow Us
Site – https://thedroneu.com/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneu
Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/
Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu
Timestamps
[01:30]Our sponsor for today is our upcoming 3D interactive modeling class
[02:13]Today's question is about business strategy and branding
[03:46]Is there any risk to being a jack of all trades?
[07:06]Branding strategies and building a conversion-focused website
[09:35]Figuring out your niche and building your core expertise
[12:34]Your unique selling proposition and why you should never compete on the basis of price
[13:05]Don't forget to check out our upcoming sales class

Apr 9, 2021 • 23min
ADU 01179: How Can I Make My Drone “Remote ID Compatible”?
Today's question is about drone remote-id. How can you make your drone "remote-id compatible"? Is this something that you should be even worrying about right now?
Our caller for today, Jack has a question about drone remote-id. Back in December 2020, drone remote-id rules were finalized by the FAA. Once these restrictive rules kick in, it will become mandatory to broadcast your drone's location via remote-id. So, is your drone already compatible? And if not, are there any modules that you can attach to your drone to ensure compliance?
Do you need to worry about this if you are an FPV drone pilot?
Additionally, we also discuss the need to cultivate greater awareness, the definition of the navigable airspace, and whether (or not) this new rule will succeed in higher compliance. Thanks for the great question, Jack. Fly Safe!
Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF
Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad!
Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.
If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.
Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community.
Follow Us
Site – https://thedroneu.com/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneu
Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/
Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu
Timestamps
[01:00]Should you be worried about remote id right now?
[02:03]This show is brought to you by our in-person training events
[03:11]Our plans for the 2021 Fly-In
[04:43]Today's question is about drone remote id
[07:42]With remote id still 2 years away, do the patented solutions mean anything at all?
[08:02]Are the current crop of DJI drones already compliant?
[08:17]Flying in FRIA's once remote id kicks in
[10:00]Will your drone be more safe or less safe once you attach a remote id module?
[10:26]How does the FAA define navigable airspace?
[11:00]How this restrictive rule will negatively impact STEM education
[12:03]Cultivating awareness and ensuring compliance among new drone pilots
[12:40]Is FAA's new training system for recreational pilots a step in the right direction?
[18:18]Can we expect new remote id modules to hit the market?
[19:40]How can FPV drones be made remote id compliant?