I should clarify something I state in the video about 400 AGL, because some people are losing their minds about my misstatement. 400AGL means 400 feet above the ground, not 400 feet above your launch point as I state in the video. So wherever you are, the limit is 400 feet above the ground at that point. I apologize for this egregious mistake. I should be whipped with a wet noodle. I will say this - if you are flying at 400 feet above your launch point, and you fly over a ditch that is 500 horizontal feet away, putting your drone at 450 feet AGL, guess what . . . do you really think that is a major issue? Just saying. Use common sense. If you launch from the edge of a canyon that is 1000 feet deep, you are technically breaking the law if you fly over the canyon until you drop down to -600 feet on your screen. But how do you know how deep that canyon is? You don’t. Again, it’s about common sense. Until drones have altimeters on them, just be sensible. So for those of you on Mavicpilots.com losing your mind over this tiny statement, I’m sorry.
We had a guy at our old farm house ( Not a crop duster) Fly not even 150 ft from ground level. We got so sick of it we called the FAA . Never seen him again 😂
You misinterpreted subsection c of part 91.119 “At an altitude of 500ft above the surface, EXCEPT over open water OR a sparsely populated area. In those cases the aircraft my not be operated closer then 500ft to any person, vessel, vehicle, or structure.” So a plane can legally fly at say 200ft AGL and collide with a drone. I feel remote ID and or ADSB will have to be integrated so that ATC and manned aircraft are aware of all drone operations to keep the NAS safe.
Crop dusters operate under part 137 agricultural aircraft regulations. The section you would be looking for is part 137.49 in short same basic rules as 91.119 but can fly at any altitude to safely dispense AG chemicals. Including approach’s turn arounds etc.
When I mentioned to my CEO that I was buying a drone it started a discussion about marketing photos and video when I'm on the road doing equipment demos. I circled back with him and pointed out all of the laws and requirements in order to do it legally. The response I got was that the company was willing to pay for the course and the test for me to get my Part 107. Talk about an awesome development!
Making recreational flyers fly only in AMA parks is never going to happen. I fly to explore, not just to fly. It's ridiculous. Like buying a car and being told you can only drive it in that parking lot over there.
The whole idea of integrating drones into the airspace is flawed. You don't integrate bicycles onto the freeway, you keep them separate. Same should apply here. Drones under 400 ft and manned aviation above 500. Any infractions should be vigorously prosecuted.
Several rules are due to people doing stupid stuff. I spent 26 years as a law enforcement officer. I will never forget the time I was sent to get a guy to reel in a kite that he was flying (quite high) about 500' straight off the end of a runway at an International Airport. His rationale was there was no sign prohibiting kite flying just outside the airport perimeter fence. I told him we would put one up next to the do not murder people sign that was on back order.
ok now that was just stupid on him for flying a kite right next to a runway. but in terms of just flying a drone at low altitude or in the middle of nowhere, you don't need a million laws for it. common sense should prevail.
Thats in the Bible at least. Thou shalt not flyath a kite around an airport. Thou shalt not flyath a drone unless you are government. So it is written. So it is done.
As a helicopter pilot I pay attention to part 91.119 section (d). There are exceptions to the minimum altitudes in regards to Helicopter. We normally fly at 500’ to allow for an emergency landing in the event of a engine failure. But in the case that your friend states he can fly anywhere at any altitude does not seem technically correct. But that is no reason to hate drones. Birds, power lines, balloons etc. can be dangerous. There is always a risk.
In the big picture, it’s all about clearing the air space for drone deliveries by Amazon, UPS, et.al. They’ll be able to fly everywhere, over people, no VLOS, etc.
There is a big difference between “worst case” analysis to yield rules and something that approaches balancing risks. If we applied “worst case” analysis to all human endeavors, we’d be stuck in our houses doing very little. For instance, number of times I’ve seen a crop duster working in the farmland surrounding me: zero. How often do modern drones fall out of the sky? If a 250g drone falls from the sky, what is its likelihood of it even hitting someone, let alone injuring them. Negligible. What is the likelihood of a golf ball slicing off of a course and hitting someone. Probably more, but we still have roads next to fairways. The restrictions should match the aircraft size, capabilities, etc., based on actual science and thorough, realistic testing, instead of one size fits all rules. Plus, big sky, little drone. Too many rules, like every other part of our lives…
I shoot real estate daily under a 107 and get confronted often, I'd say at least monthly, by upset people that are sure I must be doing something illegal...typically having to do with their "privacy." Most times by identifying myself and my purpose of shooting a home for sale satisfies them, but there have been a couple times where things got a little heated. Here's the thing...drones are difficult to see and often also the operator difficult to find. I'm a million percent sure if my location was being broadcast to anyone with an app that dings when a drone is nearby I would be confronted WAY more often, with the chances of getting into a physical altercation also rising exponentially since these people will be the ones LOOKING to pick a fight. It'll be interesting to see what happens the first time the FAA gets sued by a commercial photographer who was attacked because his whereabouts were being broadcast.
I fly alot by people. Most don't have a clue what it is about. Once pass the Goggles they realize no Time to spy. But once I mention rules.. hobby is soon Dead. Like freedom to to travel.. unhindered and not taxed... But government made it there's now..soon can't go nowhere without there permission... Great company you work for.. God bless..
Another note. Rules.. for safety.. you know how many have been killed by Hobby?? good 100 year's.. and not one died. Not About safty.. About who is boss..
I've shown 5 people a Day on adverage.. for 4 year's now.. all in a good light.. that's what will save Hobby.. my opinion but I'm a rebel.. an American.
Just had an experience with the Park Ranger at the State Park. His information on who controlled the airspace over the Park was very inaccurate. Today I returned with all the new Rules and the State rules all highlighted to bring him up to speed. I think we had a very productive conversation and he promised to read through the materials I supplied. He also understood what my goals were to gain access to the shore from the Park and he seemed very open to it.
Can someone explain why I can fly in a paramotor up to 18,000 feet high in the sky without a license???? But for a drone…. I need a license??? Makes no sense?
Thanks for your videos. They are appreciated. Hoping I am not repeating another comment here. I scanned but did not find the info I am sharing. Regarding your brief discussion of 400 AGL, Part 107.51 limits altitude to 400 AGL except you can fly 400 ft above a structure as long as the drone stays within a 400 ft radius. In your example of the Grand Canyon, the drone operator can legally fly over the edge of the cliff as long as the drone stays within 400 ft of the edge and does not fly more than 400 ft above the edge of the cliff. It does not technically become illegal as soon as the drone crosses the open expanse beyond the edge of the cliff. This also means you can fly a drone up to 400 ft above a structure as long as the drone stays within 400 ft radius of the structure. You could be on the roof of a building or on the ground and still fly it 400 ft above the structure.
They change the rules so much it's mind-boggling. Now you have to register your drone, no matter what the weight, or purpose - to take pictures/videos even if it's for your own collection. Probably because a lot of people were using the loophole to say "Hey I was flying recreationally AT THE TIME I took the pictures - changed my mind later and used it on my Yt (which could be monetized). Great video! I'm a new sub!
Excellent video, Russ!! Really appreciate your passion for not only explaining the rules and regulations, but even explaining the details of understanding those rules in light of the bigger picture for safer droning. Thank you!!
Regarding Part 91.119, there is an exception for crop dusters. In fact, the exception is for *all* aircraft flying under part 91. 14 CFR §91.119(c) reads in part "...An altitude of 500 feet above the surface, except over open water or sparsely populated areas..." Since a field of crops is definitely sparsely populated, the pilot of a manned aircraft may flow as low as they desire over that field.
In our area, there are a lot of farm fields. It is quite common to see the planes fly to the other side of town to refill and then fly back across the residential areas barely clearing the treetops on their way back to the fields. They don't bother with going up to the required altitude. I sometimes fly at our high school football fields in the evening when no one is there. Yesterday, I had a crop duster fly directly over at very low altitude. I couldn't hear him 'til he was right on me. If my drone had been up, it could have easily been hit.
@@Kilroy01 Most aircrafts are only required to be 500 ft away from a structure during flight/surface and not landing/take off. Regardless of the aircraft, you are the smaller craft and should lower your altitude in this situation.
I am a long time follower of your channel and always find you to have the most reliable info when it comes to drone rules and regulations. I have been a licensed single engine land pilot for close to 30 years and acquired my part 107 a couple yrs back when I bought my first drone . I was watching this video to keep up with some of the changes in the reg and saw a minor flaw in your info in regards to flying over National Parks. I know it is still debatable because of the word “requested” and this info comes from the AIM ‘s and not the FAR’s but the FFA has requested that pilot not fly below 2,000 feet AGL over National Parks. FAR’s 7-5-6b ["Pilots are requested to maintain a minimum altitude of 2,000 feet above the surface of the following: National Parks, Monuments, Seashores, 7-5-2 Lakeshores, Recreation Areas and Scenic Riverways administered by the National Park Service, National Wildlife"] Don’t mean to be picky! Keep up the good content!
Yep I quit the hobby in July 2021 after being in for 9 years. 30+ planes, 12 drones, 3 boats. So many laws, locals not wanting to race. 2016-2018 were the FPV Hobby HypeTrain years
If little Johnny and Julie get interested in model aviation, they should perhaps be directed toward guns, sex, drugs --- maybe motorcycles. Quadcopters could ruin their reputations.
Another great video Russ! I’m a Canadian airline and new recreational drone pilot. When I have some stick time on the drone I plan on becoming an advanced licensed pilot. Thank you for your common sense practical and very informative info. Keep it up, fly safe!
Great video. One correction I have is that the AGL isn't relative to the launch point or the control station, but to your drone. Your drone is what's in the air, not you, so in theory you have to keep mental track of elevation changes below your drone just like you have to mind what's under your drone. You can't just yeet your drone off a cliff and pretend that it's still 400' AGL lol.
@@51Drones That's been at the top of my wish list from the beginning. I have to spend a lot of time studying topographical maps before I fly in a new area with mountains, large rock formations, or steeply ascending landscapes. I have found it invaluable to be able to do 3D mission planning with Dronelink. I love that it shows me a simulated 3D model of my flight plan.
So flying over the edge of a cliff well above 400 feet AGL is dangerous because it could be unsafe to the jet that's out of control and about to crash into the cliff?
@@51Drones Actually, just having a built-in ground elevation map would suffice (probably), which I think google, and others, already have available. As long as you know the topography of where the drone is at you can calculate AGL. This is, essentially, what small plane pilots do since most of them do not have radar altimeters. They look at the map of where they are and compare that to their altimeter, which gives Mean (aka height above) Sea Level (MSL). Granted, it's not a perfect nor instantaneous measurement.
I for one appreciate your knowledge of drone laws how you present them to us in your videos. As a Papa of 8 grandchildren of whom are the sole reason for purchasing my mini 2 I'm glad you have our backs. Keep making videos and we all can stay informed. Thanks!!
I’m a caregiver and listen to more TH-cam then anything. I recently bought a DJI Mavic Air 2S and fly 2-4 times a day through out the day. Your videos are very informative and i could see this turning into a podcast for people who want to learn more but have day jobs or drive for a living. PODCASTS PODCASTS PODCASTS 🥳
I often fly (for work) in remote, off-grid areas of Alaska that are frequented by small aircraft (Cessnas, Pipers, and the like). I use a handheld air band transceiver to talk to airplane pilots if I need to to alert them to where my drone is and its altitude. You should be able to hear an approaching plane and get your drone down to a low level. Having the ability to talk to a pilot on the radio really helps in situations when they are under 500 ft AGL.
Thank you for all the information, It makes my life so much easier! Its very difficult to stay current with new rules and laws when trying to run my own channel, so having someone make it this easy is amazing!
For ag operation FAR 137 applies, for operation of kites FAR 101 applies. FAR 91.119 (c) allows aircraft to fly lower than 500 feet agl if you are 500 feet from certain objects (see FAR 91.119(c))
G'day Russ, Just thought I would update you on Australian Drones Regulations. CASA (the Australian version to the FAA) has announced that as from 1st July 2021 all drones with a weight exceeding 700g (1.54lbs) used by commercial pilots (Part 107, pilots in the US) must register their drones. It is going to cost AUD$40.00 (USD$29.98) per drone per year. At the present time there is no need for recreational pilots to pay a registration fee, but all drones exceeding 250g (0.55lbs) you must register with CASA, and drones under 250g dont need to be registered
thats sad. Its all about taxing and enslaving the people. Just like ohios rules to register kayaks to use waterways we own. Its all about revenue generation. If it wasnt it would be free, Its absurd.
1. registration/insurance 2. 400ft max height limit 3. NO-flying over people, from vehicles, over traffic, over city roads, crowded area’s, near airport, after dark without permits 4. no loitering over businesses, landmarks etc. all the rules we need honestly idk why drone users are being treated like we fly airliners and not drones!
The maned aircraft need the rules. If they crash and they do they kill people. The only reason for the rules on toys is to kill the hobby and free up the airspace.
I live across the highway from a skydiving place in the country and we have a ton of air traffic around my place and yes I do fly my drone here. And I have to be acutely aware of any aircraft so I do keep my ears open and if I notice any aircraft in the area I lower my drones altitude significantly
As someone preparing to return to the drone hobby after a few years on the ground, thank you for this upload. It's always important to stay up to date on the rules! .... also thanks for the reminder, I need to register my racing drone before I fly again. As a footnote, some drones may require additional paperwork for you to be entirely legal. For example, while I'm not up to date on the technology anymore, older high performance hobby grade racing drones may be equipped with an FPV system that transmits on *Amateur Radio* bands. It is not legal for you to even power such a drone up unless you have an appropriate amateur radio license, and then you are also bound to the myriad rules of said license, such as proper identification and non-commercial use. That said, we could always use some more hobby crossover, and I for one would readily welcome fellow drone enthusiasts to fly on the electromagnetic airways as well as the physical ones!
Your video makes perfect sense. That's why I have been subscribed to your channel for a while now. I have all the apps that are suppose to help me. Sometimes, even with all those apps, I don't feel confident if I can fly my drone in some places. I always try to follow all rules. I have my drone, a Mavic Mini 2, registered and labeled. That way, if an officer or someone that doesn't rally know the FAA rules ask me about credentials or registrations, I have something to show. I don't like to fly at 400 feet, I think videos looks better at lower altitude. But, manned aircraft pilot, fly under 400ft too often. At least in the place I live and where I used to live. So I prefer to fly my drone between 35 and 65 meters, when possible. Some times I fly at 400, but not on purpose. But now, while I am writing this, I am thinking to change the settings to less altitude, and less distance. I am glad I found your channel, and I appreciate all that I've learned from you. Thank you my friend. :)
Great job Russ as always. In regards to crop dusters, even if it is an area where drones can fly all drones must yield right of way to manned aircraft. So the drone operator will need to wait or go somewhere else and fly.
Very interesting video. I was only flying a month before I decided I wanted my Part 107. I'm really glad I did, since I learned so much by having to study for the test.
Hi 51 Drones, I love your channel--so please don't be offended if I ask for clarification regarding this FAA rule. I am Part 107 certified for 4 years and fly drones as part of my job. You are correct that money doesn't HAVE to be involved for a flight to be "commercial" by nature of "intent." Even if you are a farmer who wants to use a drone for your own business (to inspect roofs, count cows, check irrigation, etc)--you aren't getting "paid" directly--but that's still helping your business. However, one of the FAA test question asks, "If your neighbor offers you football tickets in exchange for drone pictures of his house to use in a real-estate listing . . . does that fall under Part 107?" The FAA says "Yes" because when a you accept money (or any form of compensation) that is automatically deemed "in furtherance of a business." Ken Heron said a drone hobbyist can be fined up to $1100 for selling drone imagery without a Part 107 certificate and a business owner who knowingly hires a non-certified drone "hobbyist" can be fined $9,000 per violation. Please see video link below: th-cam.com/video/vpUeevt03RE/w-d-xo.html Correct me if I'm wrong, but I always understood a hobbyist is forbidden to sell any drone imagery--or use a drone to accomplish "work"--unless they are Part 107 certified? The Hobbyist exemption under Title 14, USC 44809 is the only federal law that requires you to "have fun" because you are only allowed to fly "recreationally." LOL! Maybe I am mistaken, but I always thought payment trumped "intent" in the eyes of the FAA. They are cracking down on monetized TH-cam videos now because people are making money from them--even if they claim their "intent" was "having fun": Here is example: th-cam.com/video/NDiJXIXedFQ/w-d-xo.html&ab_channel=KenHeronKenHeronVerified
What if you equip your drone with a highly visible daylight strobe flasher? That to me would be visual line of site. That is what I started using on my newest drone. And I can tell you, it is very visible at long distances with the naked eye...
I have 6 drones and started when they first came out with consumer drones and was one of the first to get my drone registration. But have not had my drones up for over a year now, because the rules are coming so fast, that I am afraid I will get nailed by some rules I missed., I am afraid to even start the motors on my drone anymore. A lot of money wasted, my last drone is a Q5004K, was not cheap but afraid to fly it anymore.
Great common sense review Russ. From an ATP rated Part 107 rated pilot, flying by the rules is what keeps us all safe and legal. Keep up the great videos!
why anyone would support more government interference and control in our lives is absurd and beyond me. The US government has ZERO authority to do such things yet the people let them keep doing it.
@@mysticaldragon2740 the U.S Airspace is regulated for a reason. It also is the safest airspace on the planet. 35 years as an airline pilot flying all over the world has proved that to me. If UAVs are to integrate into this it must be through the agency that has been doing it from the start.
When I read: "safest airspace on the planet", that's reminds me the WTC on 9/11. Rules are for safety, we know that. Keeping the common sense is the key 🔑.
Commercial pilot and flight instructor here. In regards to the minimum flight altitude for manned aircraft, the FAR’s are not quite so cut and dry. In short, the minimum altitudes for flying an airplane are 1000 ft over a congested area, 500 ft over “other than congested areas”. However, over sparsely populated areas, the FARs allow flight at a lower altitude, just so long s as it will allow for a emergency landing without undue hazard to persons or property on the ground. So, yes, in a rural area you are legally aloud to fly an airplane lower than 500ft AGL. (Not saying it’s recommended, just can be legal.) Thanks for all the great information you provide! Following is Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Section 91.119 of the General Operating and Flight Rules, which specifically prohibits low flying aircraft. 91.119 Minimum safe altitudes; general Except when necessary for takeoff or landing, no person may operate an aircraft below the following altitudes: (a) Anywhere - An altitude allowing, if a power unit fails, an emergency landing without undue hazard to persons or property on the surface. (b) Over congested areas - Over any congested area of a city, town, or settlement, or over any open-air assembly of persons, an altitude of 1,000 feet above the highest obstacle within a horizontal radius of 2,000 feet of the aircraft. (c) Over other than congested areas - An altitude of 500 feet above the surface except over open water or sparsely populated areas. In that case, the aircraft may not be operated closer than 500 feet to any person, vessel, vehicle, or structure. (d) Helicopters - Helicopters may be operated at less than the minimums prescribed In paragraph (b) or (c) of this section if the operation is conducted without hazard to persons or property on the surface. In addition, each person operating a helicopter shall comply with routes or altitudes specifically prescribed for helicopters by the Administrator.
In Europe we can fly over uninvolved people but not crowds if we fly a C0 or sub 250gr (at the moment there are no drones with C class) or unintentionally fly over people if we fly a C1 drone. C0 is a sub250gr drone and C1 between 250gr and 899gr.
I fly my drone in Southern Saskatchewan for crop checking and am frequently beyond VLOS - out to about a mile and a half, usually. There is an airstrip about 4 miles from our farm, where crop dusting aircraft are based. I can easily hear those things taking off and flying from that distance and have plenty of time to dive for the deck and return home. I never overfly anyone's farm yard, although, I may buzz a tractor if I see one!
We need these rules like we need rules for walking. RC aircraft have a great track record and the government should leave us alone. As for me I'll fly when and where I want and I'll do it in a safe way and they can put their rules where the sun doesn't shine.
Just wait. Automatic restricted take off or return to home whenever you do something illegal. It will then be automatically reported with an automated fine.
As technologies change, new laws and regulations will also develop and change. Also, your analogy of walking is dumb because there ARE laws about walking: where to walk, when to walk, where & when you can or can’t walk.
I don't know waire you live but I live in America. I walk waire I like and as far as I know their is no law to stop me if you are so stupid as to think the government is passing these laws for safety you are the dumb one. They will kill this hobby and you will help them. When you can't fly any toys anymore you can look back and say I helped kill that hobby for everyone. As for me I'll fight them just like any other person who try to f up the future for my grandkids.
@@angeldoggy try crossing a street outside a crosswalk, or walking onto a military base without going through a gate, or walking onto an airfield, or onto someone’s property when there are no trespassing signs.
Monti thered it's because of people like you that the government is nolonger of the people and for the people. By the way I work for the government and can walk anywhere I like even all the places you thought I was band from. Yes even privet property with a no trespassing Sign
If you think about it, if you launch from property adjacent to a national Park, and keep within the boundaries of line of sight, how much park are you really going to get to see? Normally, you have to drive a few miles into the park before you see the beauty and scenic areas? So there’s Really no benefit from hopping over the fence so to speak.
You were very informative. I’m glad i did everything right. Only flying for 1year but no 107 but dont need one. Thats not my income. Its the best fun I’ve had for awhile. Lolol. Again thanks so much OH. PS. IM FULLY REGISTERED TRUST ALSO. STAY SAFE BROTHER
You are absolutely a super star. Thanks again for an awesome and informational video. If you ever make it out to Southern California I'd like to shake your hand.
Great info as usual thanks for sharing. Drone pilots can not see behind the drone. Most commercial aircraft thinking of float planes cannot see behind either unless they have radar. Most pilots can see left and back a little, but it is more difficult to see to the right very far back. Happy Flying
3:39 Good grief. I used to fly kites at up to 1000 feet altitude (about 2500 feet of line) back in the day. Do I have to register my kite with the FAAA???
I think Little Johnny will need a commercial pilot's license for his kite today. (This in no way intends to diminish kite flying among adult unmanned aerial kite system pilots who, no doubt have astronaut training.)
@@whitewolf1298 My opinion may not be the final word, but the silver lining is that he probably could get out of that one with a few expensive lawyers. Kids should always keep a robust legal fund in the piggy bank.
Using your part 107 knowledge you should know the only way a manned plane is flying under 500 ft.(crop duster) is with a WAIVER obtained for the day and time they fly. And on that note, once a waiver is approved that should create a temporary no fly zone and you wouldn't be allowed to fly when and where those other operations are happening.
The very reason for all these rules is to make people give up the Hobby. The same thing happened with CB Radio in the 80s, it worked everyone gave it up...
Another great video Russ. I would like you to address something for me. I am a recreational flyer although taking my 107 this Friday. I live in Texas which has a lot of drone laws, one of which I got my hand slapped, for flying over a dam. I made a really nice video of the dam on the lake where we spend most of our summers, with the intent of showing the power and beauty of the water going over the flood gates and on down river. I was only over the dam for a very brief period however I was called on the video by the lake authorities where I had a 2 hour meeting. At the time I was unfamiliar with the Texas law ( no excuse ). My question is, as you address in this video, the FAA has complete authority over airspace, hence how can states intact their own drone laws and regulations. I completely understand the concern of flying over critical infrastructure however I don't understand how these are enforceable " state laws ". Keep up the good work!
7:30 I was flying my drone beyond the visual line of sight and crashed into the bottom of the wash gully. The jackrabbits filed a complaint but I have yet to be served by the timber warden.
If I want to fly to the top of a 400’ mountain, I have to climb partially up the mountain? How does my climbing the mountain make it safer for aircraft flying over that same mountain with a 500’ buffer? If I’m on top of that mountain I can now fly 400’ over that mountain top but can’t if I’m at the base of the mountain? What’s the logic there?
You can fly at 400' above ground level. If you take off at the base of the mountain and fly up the side of the mountain you can maintain that 400' above that ground's level. i.e. if the mountain is 400' high then you can fly to 800' above what you took off from assuming you were at 0'. Keep this in mind when you climb to the top of the mountain to launch and fly away from the mountain, you're now flying higher than you were when you took off and will need to adjust your height accordingly since the ground level is lower than where you launched from.
The logic is manned aircraft aren’t supposed to fly below 500 ft AGL except for specific actions or intent. The drone at 400 ft AGL and manned aircraft at 500 ft AGL gives a 100 ft altitude deconfliction. Safety first!
In sparsely populated areas, a manned aircraft can fly as low as they like as long as they’re more than 500 feet (in any direction) from people or structures. Also crop dusters aren’t part 91, I think they’re part 137.
Saw a drone hovering in the center median of the interstate several days ago, thought to myself as I passed it by, how dangerous is this. Cars whizzing by this thing at 60 miles an hour.
I only fly about 200 feet above the ground, and most of the time in my backyard ,my neighbor has a big field out back and said he had no problem with me flying my drone. I used to have a commercial helicopter license and seem to have fewer rules for the helicopter than they do for flying a toy plastic drone these days. I never go more than 700 feet away from me. If I hear a plane in the area I will land my drone until it is gone.
This was a lot more encouraging. If the rules are too restricitive then it feels like your creativity is limited. I'm still worried though, because I plan to travel to different countries with my drone and now it seems like every country may have their own set of rules and restrictions then it becomes a major pain.
Question: Last weekend I saw soemone flying around 100 feet up in a hang glider (unpowered), just over tree tops on the bluff where I live. My house is on a 380 ft bluff over the Mississippi on the Minnesota / Wisconsin border. This is one of those that launch behind a waterski boat. (Water skiing was invented just below my bluff in 1932.) He went back and forth, catching thermos. overhead for about an hour. I was not flying my Air 2 at the time. But I have a question: what rules apply to these unpowered craft? Also a couple years ago I saw a man with his granddaughter in an untra-light plane as I stood on the edge of the bluff. He was the same altitude as me on my cliff and he was able to wave at me about 50 feet away. I expect that was illeagle. Lake City , MN
Absolutely excellent!👏👍 Every drone owner/pilot should be aware of the rules before heading out. I have question about TH-camrs who are simply doing reviews and are following the rules as you have described. Do they need to be 107 certified?
The altitude limits are crucial here in Las Vegas. In fact, because Las Vegas is primarily restricted airspace, it's crucial to use B4UFly or similar before every flight. Much of your flight path will not only require LAANC approval, but will also have additional height restrictions. 200 feet AGL is very, very common. Beyond that, you have to have your head on a swivel because there are so many pilots flying illegally low. Hint: Sightseeing helicopters. They are everywhere, and they love to swoop down low to give the tourists a thrill. I was out at the Seven Magic Mountains installation southwest of town yesterday and within a half hour period, there must have been a dozen small planes going by flying very low to the ground. Same thing with the sightseeing helicopters over Red Rock Canyon, AND those same helicopters flying low all the way back across the Valley, flying from Red Rock to their big finish flying over the Strip. And the helicopters flying back from the Grand Canyon. And...... That's also why I love the ADS-B function on my Air 2. You can hear the small planes and the helicopters coming, but you can't hear the gliders.
Another great video/update thanks!! I guess I’m going to go today to the FAAdronezone and register my DJI Spark. I’ve been flying gas/electric plans, some helicopters for over thirty years and now drones for eight years. So my question is the one time FEE of $5 to register your drone. Technically that’s referring to everything else I still own and fly right? Id be able to put the same number on each and every aircraft I have. As they I guess refer to them as all being “DRONES”. Thanks
So anything below 1200 ft AGL unless otherwise indicated is class G airspace meaning that it isn't controlled. Aircraft can fly in class G airspace meaning that they can fly as low as they want unless they are over populated areas or people and then you need to be 500 ft above them.
I should clarify something I state in the video about 400 AGL, because some people are losing their minds about my misstatement. 400AGL means 400 feet above the ground, not 400 feet above your launch point as I state in the video. So wherever you are, the limit is 400 feet above the ground at that point. I apologize for this egregious mistake. I should be whipped with a wet noodle. I will say this - if you are flying at 400 feet above your launch point, and you fly over a ditch that is 500 horizontal feet away, putting your drone at 450 feet AGL, guess what . . . do you really think that is a major issue? Just saying. Use common sense. If you launch from the edge of a canyon that is 1000 feet deep, you are technically breaking the law if you fly over the canyon until you drop down to -600 feet on your screen. But how do you know how deep that canyon is? You don’t. Again, it’s about common sense. Until drones have altimeters on them, just be sensible. So for those of you on Mavicpilots.com losing your mind over this tiny statement, I’m sorry.
The crop duster scenario brings up a thought. If that is happening I would expect it to be on private property. If flying on that property one would need permission. Then you would know as well as the pilot when you had permission to fly.
OK, at 14:21 where you talk about furtherance of a business that seems to contradict what happens with YT. You go out and fly totally for fun, the family picnic, put it on your family YT channel where you just have family stuff. Then YT monetizes it and now you need a part 107, that is what I have heard. He didn't have any intent on furtherance of a business but YT did. Elaborate on this if you would, 107 or not? The biggest problem with the rules is the police and rangers that don't understand them or want to understand them and think their word is the law right or wrong. As always a great video.
This is one of those gray areas that makes it all confusing. As I understand, because YOUR intent at the time was never to use the drone for the benefit of a business, then 107 is not required. This question was asked by 2 different people to the same FAA agent, and he gave 2 different responses, but others have been told it all comes down to intent.
I live near Lake Michigan and every summer we have ultralight air craft flying over our houses and it seems to me that an ultra light hitting my house or my person would do more damage then just about any drone. I wonder what rules the FAA has for this type of aircraft. Thanks for your video most of it is common sense but you brought up some great points.
I invested $1200 in a very good drone and followed all the rules at the time to be very safe. Then they come out with you must call anyone with a crop dusting business to get their permission which there were 15 around my area and none would take my calls then the FAA wanted money for everything so they could control everything ! And if there ever was an infraction it could cost yo $10,00 to $100,000 . It became nothing but a money pit for the benefit of the FAA . They weren't getting their piece of the pie so they made all this crap up . I flew for fun , on my 200 acre farm and the FAA made it NOT fun so I peeled my registration numbers off and just gave my drone to a guy I didn't even know and said good luck !!
The only error you made after peeling the FAA numbers off your drone was to quit flying yourself. If RID does go into effect in Sep, 2023, the very 1st thing I’ll do (before flying) is peel the FAA number and my phone number stickers off my drone. The FAA can go pound sand.
A crop duster does not have to file a (normal) flight plan. They do have to file a special "operations" plan if they are going to be spraying chemicals. Notice of the intended operation must be given to the public by some effective means, such as daily newspapers, radio, television, or door-to-door notice. A plan for [the spraying] operation must be submitted to, and approved by appropriate personnel of the FAA Flight Standards District Office having jurisdiction over the area where the operation is to be conducted. The plan must include consideration of obstructions to flight; the emergency landing capabilities of the aircraft to be used; and any necessary coordination with air traffic control. All aircraft must maintain a height of at least 500 feet above ground or objects on the ground, like a house. (Minimum Safe Altitude) A crop duster can go below this height only to operate to apply chemicals and for no other reason. The exact text of the exception reads as follows: "No person may operate an aircraft over a congested area below the altitudes prescribed in part 91 of this chapter except during the actual dispensing operation, including the approaches and departures necessary for that operation."
Hello Russ. As usual , this video is very informative. But I have a question for you or for anyone who reads this comment that can accurately answer my question. I attach a strobe light on my drone as a visual aid. Does seeing the strobe light when the actual drone is hard to see clearly (as in clearly seeing the body and arms of the drone) satisfy the rule of having to be able to see the drone in flight?
Great video as usual, I always get a lot of good info, even if I don't see eye to eye with you on everything. I have 3 questions, so I'm going to split them into 3 comments....... Question #1. So many people are either getting, or stating they're happy they got the mavic mini or other sub 250g drone. I used to run the drone program at my fire dept. before retirement and still volunteer with a search n rescue drone I have, so I try to keep up on all the rules, and have read the NPRM several times over, along with existing stuff on the books. As far as I can tell, if you have a sub 250g drone, it is true you don't have to register it, which also means you don't HAVE TO put a wifi ID beacon on it, but if you do not have that remote ID that they decided to go with, then you are limited to flying indoors or at a FRIA. I'm not sure a lot of these mavic mini owners get that. Am I reading it wrong, or is that the way you see it too?
I was told that you have to fly a 1000 feet above the highest obstacle in the area.That is the lowest a full scale aircraft is allowed to fly.Im a private pilot.
I should clarify something I state in the video about 400 AGL, because some people are losing their minds about my misstatement. 400AGL means 400 feet above the ground, not 400 feet above your launch point as I state in the video. So wherever you are, the limit is 400 feet above the ground at that point. I apologize for this egregious mistake. I should be whipped with a wet noodle. I will say this - if you are flying at 400 feet above your launch point, and you fly over a ditch that is 500 horizontal feet away, putting your drone at 450 feet AGL, guess what . . . do you really think that is a major issue? Just saying. Use common sense. If you launch from the edge of a canyon that is 1000 feet deep, you are technically breaking the law if you fly over the canyon until you drop down to -600 feet on your screen. But how do you know how deep that canyon is? You don’t. Again, it’s about common sense. Until drones have altimeters on them, just be sensible. So for those of you on Mavicpilots.com losing your mind over this tiny statement, I’m sorry.
Ive been to 10,000 AGL with my Inspire 1. Screw the laws, be free & test your equipment to their limit. I saw Canada from that view.
We had a guy at our old farm house ( Not a crop duster) Fly not even 150 ft from ground level. We got so sick of it we called the FAA . Never seen him again 😂
Was just going to comment about this. Good you clarified and pinned 😄
You misinterpreted subsection c of part 91.119
“At an altitude of 500ft above the surface, EXCEPT over open water OR a sparsely populated area. In those cases the aircraft my not be operated closer then 500ft to any person, vessel, vehicle, or structure.” So a plane can legally fly at say 200ft AGL and collide with a drone. I feel remote ID and or ADSB will have to be integrated so that ATC and manned aircraft are aware of all drone operations to keep the NAS safe.
Crop dusters operate under part 137 agricultural aircraft regulations. The section you would be looking for is part 137.49 in short same basic rules as 91.119 but can fly at any altitude to safely dispense AG chemicals. Including approach’s turn arounds etc.
When I mentioned to my CEO that I was buying a drone it started a discussion about marketing photos and video when I'm on the road doing equipment demos. I circled back with him and pointed out all of the laws and requirements in order to do it legally. The response I got was that the company was willing to pay for the course and the test for me to get my Part 107. Talk about an awesome development!
What kind of work/Co. Business do you do?
Circle Back ?! AHAHAHAHAHA !!!!!
@@danrussell3509 ok jen
Making recreational flyers fly only in AMA parks is never going to happen. I fly to explore, not just to fly. It's ridiculous. Like buying a car and being told you can only drive it in that parking lot over there.
If you don’t have a license and insurance, you can’t drive in that parking lot. 😅
@@brettjones4300 Parking lots are typically private property, and you can drive on private property without insurance or license.
So get a Part 107 and you can do that.
The whole idea of integrating drones into the airspace is flawed. You don't integrate bicycles onto the freeway, you keep them separate. Same should apply here. Drones under 400 ft and manned aviation above 500. Any infractions should be vigorously prosecuted.
@@garypeterson9083 I imagine that's how it'll shake out eventually.
Several rules are due to people doing stupid stuff. I spent 26 years as a law enforcement officer. I will never forget the time I was sent to get a guy to reel in a kite that he was flying (quite high) about 500' straight off the end of a runway at an International Airport. His rationale was there was no sign prohibiting kite flying just outside the airport perimeter fence. I told him we would put one up next to the do not murder people sign that was on back order.
Some ppl have no sense
That's probably the reason for every rule.
ok now that was just stupid on him for flying a kite right next to a runway. but in terms of just flying a drone at low altitude or in the middle of nowhere, you don't need a million laws for it. common sense should prevail.
Thats in the Bible at least.
Thou shalt not flyath a kite around an airport.
Thou shalt not flyath a drone unless you are government.
So it is written. So it is done.
@@Mike-jv8bv it’s about control, giving legitimacy to government employees to harass and extort fines.
Your right. These rules prohibit entry into the hobby. Thanks for talking me out of it and saving me time, frustration and money.
As a helicopter pilot I pay attention to part 91.119 section (d). There are exceptions to the minimum altitudes in regards to Helicopter. We normally fly at 500’ to allow for an emergency landing in the event of a engine failure. But in the case that your friend states he can fly anywhere at any altitude does not seem technically correct. But that is no reason to hate drones. Birds, power lines, balloons etc. can be dangerous. There is always a risk.
As an R22 pilot, you are correct and enjoy!
In the big picture, it’s all about clearing the air space for drone deliveries by Amazon, UPS, et.al. They’ll be able to fly everywhere, over people, no VLOS, etc.
There is a big difference between “worst case” analysis to yield rules and something that approaches balancing risks. If we applied “worst case” analysis to all human endeavors, we’d be stuck in our houses doing very little. For instance, number of times I’ve seen a crop duster working in the farmland surrounding me: zero. How often do modern drones fall out of the sky? If a 250g drone falls from the sky, what is its likelihood of it even hitting someone, let alone injuring them. Negligible. What is the likelihood of a golf ball slicing off of a course and hitting someone. Probably more, but we still have roads next to fairways. The restrictions should match the aircraft size, capabilities, etc., based on actual science and thorough, realistic testing, instead of one size fits all rules. Plus, big sky, little drone. Too many rules, like every other part of our lives…
Plus, if I want to take drone videos and post them on a TH-cam channel, monetized or not, there’s no valid argument at all for that to be prohibited.
Excellent, and I mean EXCELLENT!! comment! I couldn’t agree with you more!! 💯💯‼️‼️💯💯
Well put!
it's called common sense approach to public policy. Not "zero tolerance." Your points are well taken.
@@MS-1994 Exactly!
I shoot real estate daily under a 107 and get confronted often, I'd say at least monthly, by upset people that are sure I must be doing something illegal...typically having to do with their "privacy." Most times by identifying myself and my purpose of shooting a home for sale satisfies them, but there have been a couple times where things got a little heated. Here's the thing...drones are difficult to see and often also the operator difficult to find. I'm a million percent sure if my location was being broadcast to anyone with an app that dings when a drone is nearby I would be confronted WAY more often, with the chances of getting into a physical altercation also rising exponentially since these people will be the ones LOOKING to pick a fight. It'll be interesting to see what happens the first time the FAA gets sued by a commercial photographer who was attacked because his whereabouts were being broadcast.
I fly alot by people. Most don't have a clue what it is about. Once pass the Goggles they realize no Time to spy. But once I mention rules.. hobby is soon Dead. Like freedom to to travel.. unhindered and not taxed... But government made it there's now..soon can't go nowhere without there permission... Great company you work for.. God bless..
Another note. Rules.. for safety.. you know how many have been killed by Hobby?? good 100 year's.. and not one died. Not About safty.. About who is boss..
I've shown 5 people a Day on adverage.. for 4 year's now.. all in a good light.. that's what will save Hobby.. my opinion but I'm a rebel.. an American.
Suing the people making the rules is absolutely ridiculous. That’s like suing the DoT for speed limits after someone hits you.
@@sleepingbearffg5008
Part 107 is NOT about hobbyists, ffs.
Just had an experience with the Park Ranger at the State Park. His information on who controlled the airspace over the Park was very inaccurate. Today I returned with all the new Rules and the State rules all highlighted to bring him up to speed. I think we had a very productive conversation and he promised to read through the materials I supplied. He also understood what my goals were to gain access to the shore from the Park and he seemed very open to it.
So would you still have line of sight
Can someone explain why I can fly in a paramotor up to 18,000 feet high in the sky without a license???? But for a drone…. I need a license??? Makes no sense?
Because if you screw up while flying a paramotor and fall out of the sky, you'll probably die, so they won't be able to fine you?
@@jeffreygunn3530 so it's about money and not safety?
@@murrijuana2842 Most licenses issued by governments at any level are about revenue.
Thanks for your videos. They are appreciated. Hoping I am not repeating another comment here. I scanned but did not find the info I am sharing.
Regarding your brief discussion of 400 AGL, Part 107.51 limits altitude to 400 AGL except you can fly 400 ft above a structure as long as the drone stays within a 400 ft radius.
In your example of the Grand Canyon, the drone operator can legally fly over the edge of the cliff as long as the drone stays within 400 ft of the edge and does not fly more than 400 ft above the edge of the cliff. It does not technically become illegal as soon as the drone crosses the open expanse beyond the edge of the cliff. This also means you can fly a drone up to 400 ft above a structure as long as the drone stays within 400 ft radius of the structure. You could be on the roof of a building or on the ground and still fly it 400 ft above the structure.
They change the rules so much it's mind-boggling. Now you have to register your drone, no matter what the weight, or purpose - to take pictures/videos even if it's for your own collection. Probably because a lot of people were using the loophole to say "Hey I was flying recreationally AT THE TIME I took the pictures - changed my mind later and used it on my Yt (which could be monetized). Great video! I'm a new sub!
Excellent video, Russ!! Really appreciate your passion for not only explaining the rules and regulations, but even explaining the details of understanding those rules in light of the bigger picture for safer droning. Thank you!!
Regarding Part 91.119, there is an exception for crop dusters. In fact, the exception is for *all* aircraft flying under part 91. 14 CFR §91.119(c) reads in part "...An altitude of 500 feet above the surface, except over open water or sparsely populated areas..." Since a field of crops is definitely sparsely populated, the pilot of a manned aircraft may flow as low as they desire over that field.
Gotcha! Thank you so much for clarifying that!
In our area, there are a lot of farm fields. It is quite common to see the planes fly to the other side of town to refill and then fly back across the residential areas barely clearing the treetops on their way back to the fields. They don't bother with going up to the required altitude. I sometimes fly at our high school football fields in the evening when no one is there. Yesterday, I had a crop duster fly directly over at very low altitude. I couldn't hear him 'til he was right on me. If my drone had been up, it could have easily been hit.
@@Kilroy01 Most aircrafts are only required to be 500 ft away from a structure during flight/surface and not landing/take off.
Regardless of the aircraft, you are the smaller craft and should lower your altitude in this situation.
IT IS IMPERATIVE TO SEE SOME OF MY VIDEOS, FOR HUMANITY. Answers the question. Any insights appreciated, im screwed.
@@51Drones You're welcome.
I am a crop duster. We do have some different rules under part 137, and we are granted exemptions from some rules in part 91.
I am a long time follower of your channel and always find you to have the most reliable info when it comes to drone rules and regulations.
I have been a licensed single engine land pilot for close to 30 years and acquired my part 107 a couple yrs back when I bought my first drone .
I was watching this video to keep up with some of the changes in the reg and saw a minor flaw in your info in regards to flying over National Parks.
I know it is still debatable because of the word “requested” and this info comes from the AIM ‘s and not the FAR’s but the FFA has requested that pilot not fly below 2,000 feet AGL over National Parks.
FAR’s 7-5-6b
["Pilots are requested to maintain a minimum altitude of 2,000 feet above the surface of the following: National Parks, Monuments, Seashores, 7-5-2 Lakeshores, Recreation Areas and Scenic Riverways administered by the National Park Service, National Wildlife"]
Don’t mean to be picky!
Keep up the good content!
Yep I quit the hobby in July 2021 after being in for 9 years. 30+ planes, 12 drones, 3 boats. So many laws, locals not wanting to race.
2016-2018 were the FPV Hobby HypeTrain years
If little Johnny and Julie get interested in model aviation, they should perhaps be directed toward guns, sex, drugs --- maybe motorcycles. Quadcopters could ruin their reputations.
@@surfpsych yea. RC got me away from all the negative stuff.,once sold off now im tided up into Jeeps
Another great video Russ! I’m a Canadian airline and new recreational drone pilot. When I have some stick time on the drone I plan on becoming an advanced licensed pilot. Thank you for your common sense practical and very informative info. Keep it up, fly safe!
Great video. One correction I have is that the AGL isn't relative to the launch point or the control station, but to your drone. Your drone is what's in the air, not you, so in theory you have to keep mental track of elevation changes below your drone just like you have to mind what's under your drone. You can't just yeet your drone off a cliff and pretend that it's still 400' AGL lol.
Yes, I should have clarified that. Manufacturers really need to add LIDAR so pilots know exactly what their altitude is at all times.
@@51Drones That's been at the top of my wish list from the beginning. I have to spend a lot of time studying topographical maps before I fly in a new area with mountains, large rock formations, or steeply ascending landscapes. I have found it invaluable to be able to do 3D mission planning with Dronelink. I love that it shows me a simulated 3D model of my flight plan.
So flying over the edge of a cliff well above 400 feet AGL is dangerous because it could be unsafe to the jet that's out of control and about to crash into the cliff?
@@51Drones Actually, just having a built-in ground elevation map would suffice (probably), which I think google, and others, already have available. As long as you know the topography of where the drone is at you can calculate AGL. This is, essentially, what small plane pilots do since most of them do not have radar altimeters. They look at the map of where they are and compare that to their altimeter, which gives Mean (aka height above) Sea Level (MSL). Granted, it's not a perfect nor instantaneous measurement.
Another great rules video, Sir!
Just passed my part 107 so I can be in compliance when I use the drone on my TH-cam channel. 👍
Congrats!
Complacent in their extortion racket. 🖕
I for one appreciate your knowledge of drone laws how you present them to us in your videos. As a Papa of 8 grandchildren of whom are the sole reason for purchasing my mini 2 I'm glad you have our backs. Keep making videos and we all can stay informed. Thanks!!
I’m a caregiver and listen to more TH-cam then anything. I recently bought a DJI Mavic Air 2S and fly 2-4 times a day through out the day. Your videos are very informative and i could see this turning into a podcast for people who want to learn more but have day jobs or drive for a living. PODCASTS PODCASTS PODCASTS 🥳
I often fly (for work) in remote, off-grid areas of Alaska that are frequented by small aircraft (Cessnas, Pipers, and the like). I use a handheld air band transceiver to talk to airplane pilots if I need to to alert them to where my drone is and its altitude. You should be able to hear an approaching plane and get your drone down to a low level. Having the ability to talk to a pilot on the radio really helps in situations when they are under 500 ft AGL.
Thank you for all the information, It makes my life so much easier! Its very difficult to stay current with new rules and laws when trying to run my own channel, so having someone make it this easy is amazing!
For ag operation FAR 137 applies, for operation of kites FAR 101 applies. FAR 91.119 (c) allows aircraft to fly lower than 500 feet agl if you are 500 feet from certain objects (see FAR 91.119(c))
G'day Russ,
Just thought I would update you on Australian Drones Regulations. CASA (the Australian version to the FAA) has announced that as from 1st July 2021 all drones with a weight exceeding 700g (1.54lbs) used by commercial pilots (Part 107, pilots in the US) must register their drones. It is going to cost AUD$40.00 (USD$29.98) per drone per year.
At the present time there is no need for recreational pilots to pay a registration fee, but all drones exceeding 250g (0.55lbs) you must register with CASA, and drones under 250g dont need to be registered
thats sad. Its all about taxing and enslaving the people. Just like ohios rules to register kayaks to use waterways we own. Its all about revenue generation. If it wasnt it would be free, Its absurd.
Great video! Love the honesty that you yourself did the same things most people have made. Thanks for doing your homework and sharing!
1. registration/insurance
2. 400ft max height limit
3. NO-flying over people, from vehicles, over traffic, over city roads, crowded area’s, near airport, after dark without permits
4. no loitering over businesses, landmarks etc.
all the rules we need honestly idk why drone users are being treated like we fly airliners and not drones!
Don't forget needing to know how to find tower frequencies for airports for a Part 107 when you're prohibited from flying anywhere near said airports.
The maned aircraft need the rules. If they crash and they do they kill people. The only reason for the rules on toys is to kill the hobby and free up the airspace.
@@angeldoggy That’s it.
@@angeldoggy yea i can see that!
Thank you for making this video. Very informative. I learned so much from this. I am in the process of getting my part 107.
I live across the highway from a skydiving place in the country and we have a ton of air traffic around my place and yes I do fly my drone here. And I have to be acutely aware of any aircraft so I do keep my ears open and if I notice any aircraft in the area I lower my drones altitude significantly
As someone preparing to return to the drone hobby after a few years on the ground, thank you for this upload.
It's always important to stay up to date on the rules!
.... also thanks for the reminder, I need to register my racing drone before I fly again.
As a footnote, some drones may require additional paperwork for you to be entirely legal.
For example, while I'm not up to date on the technology anymore, older high performance hobby grade racing drones may be equipped with an FPV system that transmits on *Amateur Radio* bands.
It is not legal for you to even power such a drone up unless you have an appropriate amateur radio license, and then you are also bound to the myriad rules of said license, such as proper identification and non-commercial use.
That said, we could always use some more hobby crossover, and I for one would readily welcome fellow drone enthusiasts to fly on the electromagnetic airways as well as the physical ones!
Your video makes perfect sense. That's why I have been subscribed to your channel for a while now. I have all the apps that are suppose to help me. Sometimes, even with all those apps, I don't feel confident if I can fly my drone in some places. I always try to follow all rules.
I have my drone, a Mavic Mini 2, registered and labeled. That way, if an officer or someone that doesn't rally know the FAA rules ask me about credentials or registrations, I have something to show.
I don't like to fly at 400 feet, I think videos looks better at lower altitude. But, manned aircraft pilot, fly under 400ft too often. At least in the place I live and where I used to live. So I prefer to fly my drone between 35 and 65 meters, when possible. Some times I fly at 400, but not on purpose. But now, while I am writing this, I am thinking to change the settings to less altitude, and less distance.
I am glad I found your channel, and I appreciate all that I've learned from you. Thank you my friend. :)
Thanks Russ. Clear and concise. Thank you for putting all that together.
Great video! I think I was aware of most of it, but now have a more clear understanding of the National park rule.
Thanks Russ for keeping the drone community well informed about regulations with your clear and concise videos
Great job Russ as always. In regards to crop dusters, even if it is an area where drones can fly all drones must yield right of way to manned aircraft. So the drone operator will need to wait or go somewhere else and fly.
Russ great video. A lot of common sense goes into flying a drone. Thanks.
Altitude exemptions exist for crop dusters and other commercial air operations and are listed under FAA commercial regulations part 135.
And Part 137
Hi I would like you to explain the night flying regulations for non part 107
Thanks
There are none! You can fly at night without any additional restrictions. You just need to follow the normal guidelines/rules.
@@51Drones I would like to know the guidelines and rules
Very interesting video.
I was only flying a month before I decided I wanted my Part 107.
I'm really glad I did, since I learned so much by having to study for the test.
Hi 51 Drones,
I love your channel--so please don't be offended if I ask for clarification regarding this FAA rule. I am Part 107 certified for 4 years and fly drones as part of my job. You are correct that money doesn't HAVE to be involved for a flight to be "commercial" by nature of "intent." Even if you are a farmer who wants to use a drone for your own business (to inspect roofs, count cows, check irrigation, etc)--you aren't getting "paid" directly--but that's still helping your business. However, one of the FAA test question asks, "If your neighbor offers you football tickets in exchange for drone pictures of his house to use in a real-estate listing . . . does that fall under Part 107?" The FAA says "Yes" because when a you accept money (or any form of compensation) that is automatically deemed "in furtherance of a business." Ken Heron said a drone hobbyist can be fined up to $1100 for selling drone imagery without a Part 107 certificate and a business owner who knowingly hires a non-certified drone "hobbyist" can be fined $9,000 per violation. Please see video link below: th-cam.com/video/vpUeevt03RE/w-d-xo.html
Correct me if I'm wrong, but I always understood a hobbyist is forbidden to sell any drone imagery--or use a drone to accomplish "work"--unless they are Part 107 certified? The Hobbyist exemption under Title 14, USC 44809 is the only federal law that requires you to "have fun" because you are only allowed to fly "recreationally." LOL! Maybe I am mistaken, but I always thought payment trumped "intent" in the eyes of the FAA. They are cracking down on monetized TH-cam videos now because people are making money from them--even if they claim their "intent" was "having fun": Here is example:
th-cam.com/video/NDiJXIXedFQ/w-d-xo.html&ab_channel=KenHeronKenHeronVerified
What if you equip your drone with a highly visible daylight strobe flasher? That to me would be visual line of site. That is what I started using on my newest drone. And I can tell you, it is very visible at long distances with the naked eye...
They have exceptions for drones with indicator lights
I have 6 drones and started when they first came out with consumer drones and was one of the first to get my drone registration. But have not had my drones up for over a year now, because the rules are coming so fast, that I am afraid I will get nailed by some rules I missed., I am afraid to even start the motors on my drone anymore. A lot of money wasted, my last drone is a Q5004K, was not cheap but afraid to fly it anymore.
Great common sense review Russ. From an ATP rated Part 107 rated pilot, flying by the rules is what keeps us all safe and legal. Keep up the great videos!
why anyone would support more government interference and control in our lives is absurd and beyond me. The US government has ZERO authority to do such things yet the people let them keep doing it.
@@mysticaldragon2740 the U.S Airspace is regulated for a reason. It also is the safest airspace on the planet. 35 years as an airline pilot flying all over the world has proved that to me. If UAVs are to integrate into this it must be through the agency that has been doing it from the start.
@@mysticaldragon2740 because people want safety, security, stability, and protection from people who endanger people and property.
When I read: "safest airspace on the planet", that's reminds me the WTC on 9/11.
Rules are for safety, we know that. Keeping the common sense is the key 🔑.
Commercial pilot and flight instructor here. In regards to the minimum flight altitude for manned aircraft, the FAR’s are not quite so cut and dry. In short, the minimum altitudes for flying an airplane are 1000 ft over a congested area, 500 ft over “other than congested areas”. However, over sparsely populated areas, the FARs allow flight at a lower altitude, just so long s as it will allow for a emergency landing without undue hazard to persons or property on the ground. So, yes, in a rural area you are legally aloud to fly an airplane lower than 500ft AGL. (Not saying it’s recommended, just can be legal.)
Thanks for all the great information you provide!
Following is Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Section 91.119 of the General Operating and Flight Rules, which specifically prohibits low flying aircraft.
91.119 Minimum safe altitudes; general
Except when necessary for takeoff or landing, no person may operate an aircraft below the following altitudes:
(a) Anywhere - An altitude allowing, if a power unit fails, an emergency landing without undue hazard to persons or property on the surface.
(b) Over congested areas - Over any congested area of a city, town, or settlement, or over any open-air assembly of persons, an altitude of 1,000 feet above the highest obstacle within a horizontal radius of 2,000 feet of the aircraft.
(c) Over other than congested areas - An altitude of 500 feet above the surface except over open water or sparsely populated areas. In that case, the aircraft may not be operated closer than 500 feet to any person, vessel, vehicle, or structure.
(d) Helicopters - Helicopters may be operated at less than the minimums prescribed In paragraph (b) or (c) of this section if the operation is conducted without hazard to persons or property on the surface. In addition, each person operating a helicopter shall comply with routes or altitudes specifically prescribed for helicopters by the Administrator.
Hmmmmm....🤔. Border Patrol fly their helicopters over my house under 400 ft. almost daily. It's annoying, but they are the government.
@@AgeofRogerio helicopters have even more leeway than fixed wing aircraft.
Especially government operated ones.
Very important following by rules strictly and regulations. Thanks for nice video .
Great info! Thank you for taking the time to put this together.
Great Information Russ!
Happy Flying
Thanks Russ. Excellent information. Keep them coming.
In Europe we can fly over uninvolved people but not crowds if we fly a C0 or sub 250gr (at the moment there are no drones with C class) or unintentionally fly over people if we fly a C1 drone.
C0 is a sub250gr drone and C1 between 250gr and 899gr.
For me as a professional photographer these rules are mostly common sense. Thanks for the video Russ.
I fly my drone in Southern Saskatchewan for crop checking and am frequently beyond VLOS - out to about a mile and a half, usually. There is an airstrip about 4 miles from our farm, where crop dusting aircraft are based. I can easily hear those things taking off and flying from that distance and have plenty of time to dive for the deck and return home. I never overfly anyone's farm yard, although, I may buzz a tractor if I see one!
We need these rules like we need rules for walking. RC aircraft have a great track record and the government should leave us alone. As for me I'll fly when and where I want and I'll do it in a safe way and they can put their rules where the sun doesn't shine.
Just wait. Automatic restricted take off or return to home whenever you do something illegal. It will then be automatically reported with an automated fine.
As technologies change, new laws and regulations will also develop and change.
Also, your analogy of walking is dumb because there ARE laws about walking: where to walk, when to walk, where & when you can or can’t walk.
I don't know waire you live but I live in America. I walk waire I like and as far as I know their is no law to stop me if you are so stupid as to think the government is passing these laws for safety you are the dumb one. They will kill this hobby and you will help them. When you can't fly any toys anymore you can look back and say I helped kill that hobby for everyone. As for me I'll fight them just like any other person who try to f up the future for my grandkids.
@@angeldoggy try crossing a street outside a crosswalk, or walking onto a military base without going through a gate, or walking onto an airfield, or onto someone’s property when there are no trespassing signs.
Monti thered it's because of people like you that the government is nolonger of the people and for the people. By the way I work for the government and can walk anywhere I like even all the places you thought I was band from. Yes even privet property with a no trespassing Sign
damn i just bought one too might just return it. This is to big of a headache to deal with
If you think about it, if you launch from property adjacent to a national Park, and keep within the boundaries of line of sight, how much park are you really going to get to see? Normally, you have to drive a few miles into the park before you see the beauty and scenic areas? So there’s Really no benefit from hopping over the fence so to speak.
You were very informative. I’m glad i did everything right. Only flying for 1year but no 107 but dont need one. Thats not my income. Its the best fun I’ve had for awhile. Lolol. Again thanks so much OH. PS. IM FULLY REGISTERED TRUST ALSO. STAY SAFE BROTHER
You are absolutely a super star. Thanks again for an awesome and informational video. If you ever make it out to Southern California I'd like to shake your hand.
Great info as usual thanks for sharing. Drone pilots can not see behind the drone. Most commercial aircraft thinking of float planes cannot see behind either unless they have radar. Most pilots can see left and back a little, but it is more difficult to see to the right very far back. Happy Flying
Man I love your channel. So helpful all the time. Keep it up.
3:39
Good grief. I used to fly kites at up to 1000 feet altitude (about 2500 feet of line) back in the day. Do I have to register my kite with the FAAA???
I think Little Johnny will need a commercial pilot's license for his kite today. (This in no way intends to diminish kite flying among adult unmanned aerial kite system pilots who, no doubt have astronaut training.)
@@surfpsych
Would he be a domestic terrorist if he violated 300 ft and then it was subsequently and he wasn't wearing a facemask?
@@whitewolf1298 My opinion may not be the final word, but the silver lining is that he probably could get out of that one with a few expensive lawyers. Kids should always keep a robust legal fund in the piggy bank.
Using your part 107 knowledge you should know the only way a manned plane is flying under 500 ft.(crop duster) is with a WAIVER obtained for the day and time they fly.
And on that note, once a waiver is approved that should create a temporary no fly zone and you wouldn't be allowed to fly when and where those other operations are happening.
Over a sparsely populated area the restriction changes to 500 feet away from people, structures etc, not 500 agl.
The very reason for all these rules is to make people give up the Hobby. The same thing happened with CB Radio in the 80s, it worked everyone gave it up...
Another great informative video. Thanks 👍👍
Another great video Russ. I would like you to address something for me. I am a recreational flyer although taking my 107 this Friday. I live in Texas which has a lot of drone laws, one of which I got my hand slapped, for flying over a dam. I made a really nice video of the dam on the lake where we spend most of our summers, with the intent of showing the power and beauty of the water going over the flood gates and on down river. I was only over the dam for a very brief period however I was called on the video by the lake authorities where I had a 2 hour meeting. At the time I was unfamiliar with the Texas law ( no excuse ). My question is, as you address in this video, the FAA has complete authority over airspace, hence how can states intact their own drone laws and regulations. I completely understand the concern of flying over critical infrastructure however I don't understand how these are enforceable " state laws ". Keep up the good work!
Thanks! Ya, dams are CI, and there should have been an NFZ in that area. Did your drone give you any prompts or warnings?
7:30
I was flying my drone beyond the visual line of sight and crashed into the bottom of the wash gully. The jackrabbits filed a complaint but I have yet to be served by the timber warden.
If I want to fly to the top of a 400’ mountain, I have to climb partially up the mountain? How does my climbing the mountain make it safer for aircraft flying over that same mountain with a 500’ buffer? If I’m on top of that mountain I can now fly 400’ over that mountain top but can’t if I’m at the base of the mountain? What’s the logic there?
You can fly at 400' above ground level. If you take off at the base of the mountain and fly up the side of the mountain you can maintain that 400' above that ground's level. i.e. if the mountain is 400' high then you can fly to 800' above what you took off from assuming you were at 0'. Keep this in mind when you climb to the top of the mountain to launch and fly away from the mountain, you're now flying higher than you were when you took off and will need to adjust your height accordingly since the ground level is lower than where you launched from.
The logic is manned aircraft aren’t supposed to fly below 500 ft AGL except for specific actions or intent. The drone at 400 ft AGL and manned aircraft at 500 ft AGL gives a 100 ft altitude deconfliction. Safety first!
In sparsely populated areas, a manned aircraft can fly as low as they like as long as they’re more than 500 feet (in any direction) from people or structures. Also crop dusters aren’t part 91, I think they’re part 137.
Excellent video Russ. Great information that we all need to hear from time to time.
Saw a drone hovering in the center median of the interstate several days ago, thought to myself as I passed it by, how dangerous is this. Cars whizzing by this thing at 60 miles an hour.
Very good information, and a good way to share it. Big thanks!
I only fly about 200 feet above the ground, and most of the time in my backyard ,my neighbor has a big field out back and said he had no problem with me flying my drone. I used to have a commercial helicopter license and seem to have fewer rules for the helicopter than they do for flying a toy plastic drone these days. I never go more than 700 feet away from me. If I hear a plane in the area I will land my drone until it is gone.
This was a lot more encouraging. If the rules are too restricitive then it feels like your creativity is limited. I'm still worried though, because I plan to travel to different countries with my drone and now it seems like every country may have their own set of rules and restrictions then it becomes a major pain.
Nicely done Russ. Thank you for making. Did not realize the rule on national parks. Thankfully I have not tried to fly in one.
Another tricky one to watch out for is National Wildlife Preserves.
Question: Last weekend I saw soemone flying around 100 feet up in a hang glider (unpowered), just over tree tops on the bluff where I live. My house is on a 380 ft bluff over the Mississippi on the Minnesota / Wisconsin border. This is one of those that launch behind a waterski boat. (Water skiing was invented just below my bluff in 1932.) He went back and forth, catching thermos. overhead for about an hour. I was not flying my Air 2 at the time.
But I have a question: what rules apply to these unpowered craft?
Also a couple years ago I saw a man with his granddaughter in an untra-light plane as I stood on the edge of the bluff. He was the same altitude as me on my cliff and he was able to wave at me about 50 feet away. I expect that was illeagle.
Lake City , MN
Great Review! Common sense! Sadly common sense isn't always common! Thanks for info!
Absolutely excellent!👏👍 Every drone owner/pilot should be aware of the rules before heading out. I have question about TH-camrs who are simply doing reviews and are following the rules as you have described. Do they need to be 107 certified?
The altitude limits are crucial here in Las Vegas. In fact, because Las Vegas is primarily restricted airspace, it's crucial to use B4UFly or similar before every flight. Much of your flight path will not only require LAANC approval, but will also have additional height restrictions. 200 feet AGL is very, very common.
Beyond that, you have to have your head on a swivel because there are so many pilots flying illegally low. Hint: Sightseeing helicopters. They are everywhere, and they love to swoop down low to give the tourists a thrill. I was out at the Seven Magic Mountains installation southwest of town yesterday and within a half hour period, there must have been a dozen small planes going by flying very low to the ground. Same thing with the sightseeing helicopters over Red Rock Canyon, AND those same helicopters flying low all the way back across the Valley, flying from Red Rock to their big finish flying over the Strip. And the helicopters flying back from the Grand Canyon. And......
That's also why I love the ADS-B function on my Air 2. You can hear the small planes and the helicopters coming, but you can't hear the gliders.
Another great video/update thanks!! I guess I’m going to go today to the FAAdronezone and register my DJI Spark. I’ve been flying gas/electric plans, some helicopters for over thirty years and now drones for eight years. So my question is the one time FEE of $5 to register your drone. Technically that’s referring to everything else I still own and fly right? Id be able to put the same number on each and every aircraft I have. As they I guess refer to them as all being “DRONES”. Thanks
So anything below 1200 ft AGL unless otherwise indicated is class G airspace meaning that it isn't controlled. Aircraft can fly in class G airspace meaning that they can fly as low as they want unless they are over populated areas or people and then you need to be 500 ft above them.
You always do a good job of explaining things, great job Russ 👍
I should clarify something I state in the video about 400 AGL, because some people are losing their minds about my misstatement. 400AGL means 400 feet above the ground, not 400 feet above your launch point as I state in the video. So wherever you are, the limit is 400 feet above the ground at that point. I apologize for this egregious mistake. I should be whipped with a wet noodle. I will say this - if you are flying at 400 feet above your launch point, and you fly over a ditch that is 500 horizontal feet away, putting your drone at 450 feet AGL, guess what . . . do you really think that is a major issue? Just saying. Use common sense. If you launch from the edge of a canyon that is 1000 feet deep, you are technically breaking the law if you fly over the canyon until you drop down to -600 feet on your screen. But how do you know how deep that canyon is? You don’t. Again, it’s about common sense. Until drones have altimeters on them, just be sensible. So for those of you on Mavicpilots.com losing your mind over this tiny statement, I’m sorry.
The crop duster scenario brings up a thought. If that is happening I would expect it to be on private property. If flying on that property one would need permission. Then you would know as well as the pilot when you had permission to fly.
I sure hope the controller tracker will go done like a drone!!😜
Thank you for a no nonsense talk. Good job.
OK, at 14:21 where you talk about furtherance of a business that seems to contradict what happens with YT. You go out and fly totally for fun, the family picnic, put it on your family YT channel where you just have family stuff. Then YT monetizes it and now you need a part 107, that is what I have heard. He didn't have any intent on furtherance of a business but YT did. Elaborate on this if you would, 107 or not? The biggest problem with the rules is the police and rangers that don't understand them or want to understand them and think their word is the law right or wrong. As always a great video.
This is one of those gray areas that makes it all confusing. As I understand, because YOUR intent at the time was never to use the drone for the benefit of a business, then 107 is not required. This question was asked by 2 different people to the same FAA agent, and he gave 2 different responses, but others have been told it all comes down to intent.
15:20 that was quit the stretch on the intent
I live near Lake Michigan and every summer we have ultralight air craft flying over our houses and it seems to me that an ultra light hitting my house or my person would do more damage then just about any drone. I wonder what rules the FAA has for this type of aircraft. Thanks for your video most of it is common sense but you brought up some great points.
Aerial application is conducted under FAR 137
I can track any civil or commercial manned AC by searching the tail number.
The only rule I have a issue with is the VLoS rule. I didn’t buy a drone to fly within a 100 meters
Very informative thanks for sharing Russ.
I invested $1200 in a very good drone and followed all the rules at the time to be very safe. Then they come out with you must call anyone with a crop dusting business to get their permission which there were 15 around my area and none would take my calls then the FAA wanted money for everything so they could control everything ! And if there ever was an infraction it could cost yo $10,00 to $100,000 . It became nothing but a money pit for the benefit of the FAA . They weren't getting their piece of the pie so they made all this crap up . I flew for fun , on my 200 acre farm and the FAA made it NOT fun so I peeled my registration numbers off and just gave my drone to a guy I didn't even know and said good luck !!
The only error you made after peeling the FAA numbers off your drone was to quit flying yourself. If RID does go into effect in Sep, 2023, the very 1st thing I’ll do (before flying) is peel the FAA number and my phone number stickers off my drone. The FAA can go pound sand.
Where do you live? NFZ should be reserved for crop dusting air craft. At least I would hope so....
you really dont have a clue about nfz's or cropdusting. let those that understand this comment instead of showing your ignorance.
There is a really cool looking water tower by my house. Can I fly my drone around it?
A crop duster does not have to file a (normal) flight plan. They do have to file a special "operations" plan if they are going to be spraying chemicals. Notice of the intended operation must be given to the public by some effective means, such as daily newspapers, radio, television, or door-to-door notice.
A plan for [the spraying] operation must be submitted to, and approved by appropriate personnel of the FAA Flight Standards District Office having jurisdiction over the area where the operation is to be conducted. The plan must include consideration of obstructions to flight; the emergency landing capabilities of the aircraft to be used; and any necessary coordination with air traffic control.
All aircraft must maintain a height of at least 500 feet above ground or objects on the ground, like a house. (Minimum Safe Altitude) A crop duster can go below this height only to operate to apply chemicals and for no other reason. The exact text of the exception reads as follows: "No person may operate an aircraft over a congested area below the altitudes prescribed in part 91 of this chapter except during the actual dispensing operation, including the approaches and departures necessary for that operation."
Hello Russ. As usual , this video is very informative. But I have a question for you or for anyone who reads this comment that can accurately answer my question. I attach a strobe light on my drone as a visual aid. Does seeing the strobe light when the actual drone is hard to see clearly (as in clearly seeing the body and arms of the drone) satisfy the rule of having to be able to see the drone in flight?
Yes!
you just have to see the dot in the sky it doesnt mean you have to see any detail.
Can you site the Regulation that states that a sub 250g UAV for recreation doesn't need to be registered...
Great video as usual, I always get a lot of good info, even if I don't see eye to eye with you on everything. I have 3 questions, so I'm going to split them into 3 comments.......
Question #1. So many people are either getting, or stating they're happy they got the mavic mini or other sub 250g drone. I used to run the drone program at my fire dept. before retirement and still volunteer with a search n rescue drone I have, so I try to keep up on all the rules, and have read the NPRM several times over, along with existing stuff on the books. As far as I can tell, if you have a sub 250g drone, it is true you don't have to register it, which also means you don't HAVE TO put a wifi ID beacon on it, but if you do not have that remote ID that they decided to go with, then you are limited to flying indoors or at a FRIA. I'm not sure a lot of these mavic mini owners get that. Am I reading it wrong, or is that the way you see it too?
No. Sub 250 will be able to fly normally, anywhere (with authorization if required)
I was told that you have to fly a 1000 feet above the highest obstacle in the area.That is the lowest a full scale aircraft is allowed to fly.Im a private pilot.