As I have often said... when there is insufficient enforcement available, regulators tend to "make an example" of someone in their attempt to have a chilling effect on the wider community. It sounds like this is exactly what happened to Mike and it *will* happen again in future. The best way to deal with this (IMHO) is widespread non-compliance with bad regulation but with a full commitment to never endangering people or third party property.
@@Geeksvana Absolutely... my opinion is worth no more than anyone else's and I respect all points of view. Only time will tell which is the most effective solution. I've seen that compliance simply allows the wedge of over-regulation to be inserted more deeply at every point. Remember "just register, it's only $5 and it will improve safety by making people accountable" -- now "Remote ID will improve safety by making people accountable". So they lied the first time? If nobody had registered then clearly the registration diktat would have been thrown out by now.
Obviously, Bruce, you have not seen the videos of what this guy has done. The FAA is coming down on the hobby in direct response to his actions. This guy is a cancer.
@@xjet You reflect the concerns of many. But, this is probably going to go the way of the automobile (at least as automobiles did in the US). First, you had to get an identifier (license plate) attached to your vehicle. Then came the requirement for the motor vehicle operator to have a license. Then came proof of insurance. Then came mandated design specs to fit roads. Then seatbelts. Then fuel regulations. Then identifiers on parts. ... ... I posit the "wild wild west" stage of any new technology in any complex society is probably very short-lived.
@@edruttledge342 You forget... automobiles were new and dangerous. We've been flying RC model aircraft for many, many decades with an excellent track record of safety. No justification therefore for onerous burdens such as Remote ID is there?
Wow! That interview was fantastic. My perception of Michael aka PhillyDroneLife, has completely shifted from the negative portrayal his detractors have given him, to one of empathy and support.
Sean, there appears to be an issue with the audio in this video. Every now and then (apparently only when Mike is talking) there's a beeping noise that means I can't hear what he's saying. 🙂
I’m three hours late to the party but I’m getting myself comfortable to watch this, your content is absolutely enthralling to me, thank you so much for the amount of effort you put in 🤝✊🤜🏻🤛🏻
Flying RC fixed wing for twenty-plus years, I and over 200,000 AMA members have enjoyed not being regulated, now we are being regulated. With multiple visits to Mikey's home and telephone calls from police and federal agencies regarding his actions, and yet he continued. I am curious where he thought his actions and disobedience of the government agencies would lead. Mikey mentioned that he is not guilty, and did not commit a crime, that may be true, but what is the term for causing laws to be written that affect others? I am 100% behind people being allowed to "do your thing", as long as your actions do not involuntarily subject others to your actions. You say a 249g drone might give someone a bump on the head. Mikey is cool with that? Who wakes up and goes outside conceding daily to potentially get a bump on the head so Mikey can make his $300 a month? Where is their right to "do their thing?" Excuse me, Mikey, you are NOT the victim. Your ignorance of the guidelines is cramping the freedom of hundreds of thousands of other people. These new laws will scare away future flyers, enable power-tripping officials to harass flyers, and limit the joy that others could have had. Make another cup of coffee, turn off the computer momentarily and dwell on the freedoms of others that your actions and those of other flyers with the same mentality have actually destroyed.
Great stream. Lots of questions answered! thanks for the chapters and your proper questions! as for my thoughts on his actions, we each have to deal with the consequences of those actions, he’s a grown man & he’s got to deal with it.
Yeap exactly !!! sounds like you know or experience how the FAA works… lol. Normally the FAA contacts you to warn you or educate the person and then if you disregard the warning is when the fines start coming… They don’t just show up blind sided with a certified letter with a $182,000 bill… lol
I made the calculation: 100m height, 250g drone and a drop on a 1.7m object aka a person equals to 144N (force from height). 100N is deadly because it equals 45 lbs of force. This guy don't know anything about physics and he DON'T CARE! This person DESERVE the fine! And he will get locked up in the end because he will and can not pay the fine and keeps flying in the same manner aka providing EVIDENCE! Absolutely irresponsibly! Instead of driving out of the city and start the drone in the field where only the drone can get hurt ...
Wow geeksvana, been waiting for this and u.s. regulation violation violation vid and it comes from you! Thank you. Great content, as always! I was wondering about this topic.
Never Ever talk to the police without a lawyer! Do not let them in your house. If they have a warrant they will come in anyway. The cops are not your friends and it won't help you to talk to them. Be polite but just shut tf up.
I think your remark about “society” was most telling - that we need to comply with the law for the sake of society as a whole (be it in this case the wider drone society / community). Ultimately, the alternative is people pick and choose which parts of the law they follow and the end result is anarchy, potentially followed by more draconian laws and enforcement. Sure there are laws that I believe are BS, but the way to get them changed OR dropped is hard work, campaigns and lobbying. Anyway, I suspect the FAA did have a vendetta against him with all the fines but he knew he was flouting the law, and you know what they say: “if you can’t do the time, don’t do the crime.”
@@EmpRebTrue. But they typically don’t post them on YT as their source of income and rub the noses of the enforcement agencies in it. When skirting rules low key is the key. When changing the rules through the legal process loud and proud is the way. It’s really just common sense.
I just don't get where Mickey has his disconnect from reality! He's a nice, fun guy, good pilot, makes good videos and has his style. He also knows about FAA regulations, *HOWEVER,* I don't understand his mental block about Part 107! The rules clearly state that if you do ANY kind of commercial work, which includes having a monetized TH-cam channel, you need to obtain the Part 107 certificate. Why is he refusing to take the test for $160 and be in compliance? It's clearly spelled out and his refusal and explanations do not make ANY sense! He didn't get fined for his P107 content, he got fined for having content that requires P107 and doesn't have it! Lastly, his argument that "nobody follows rules in the US" e.g. everybody runs the red light, well, I live in the US as well and the vast majority are following rules. Everybody violates rules on occasion, but to use this as an excuse is a pretty far reach! Well, here we are, a year later and the charges went up to $200,000 now. Also, if a sub 249g drone is being used for commercial work, it must be registered and he must have the P107 certificate.
Mikey is a sweetheart. I knew nothing about his fines when I found his channel this year. I don't share his rule breaking idealism, but I do admire his flying skill. And the man is entertaining as hell! Hey! Stu showed up! Love that guy! Great interview @Geeksvana
I tried telling this fool he was flying in an area where medical helicopters depart and land MULTIPLE times per day. It's an area where even the 400' rule can't apply. Anyone with the slightest bit of common sense would be smart enough not to do this, and even if they were flagrant about it they should be smart enough not to post it. He just deleted the posts without ever commenting on them. I can't imagine how many other people tried the same thing. He leaves up the posts where people praise his ignorant and selfish actions. I'm amazed he hasn't caused a disaster. He's the perfect example of how one idiot can ruin a great hobby for tens of thousands.
FAA: You can't fly a drone over a city, its dangerous. Also, the FAA: Jetairliners full of people and highly explosive flammable fuel and tired pilots go right ahead.
Yes he broke the rules , but the punishment should match he crime . I see people in court getting off on probation or less for serious assaults or robbery everyday . 182,000 is totally unrealistic . The number of deaths and serious injury from people using e scooters and there's no rules or regulations governing them. No one ever killed or seriously hurt from recreational drones ever , but the amount of regulations governing them is strangling the life out of the hobby .
What are you talking about? Escooters and anything an the roads are highly regulated by yur local state. Violate the law an you get a ticket from the local police.
@@dronehawk dude... That is regulated too. Drive on on the street across traffic, or on a freeway. You can't drive wherever you want to go. Give that a try, you will get a ticket, and if you don't pay the fine you will go to jail. Anything that can drive on a road is regulated by the state. A child's tricycle is regulated. Where do you live that you can just drive a scooter wherever you want?
@@dronehawkim subbed to his channel doesn't seem to fit the crime exactly key point & basis for appear .....problem is could spend 50k legal (justice favours the rich) Other thing is if Rickys drone did impact something important in accident situation there no upper limit damages $
I mean Mikey had to know this was coming. I even commented on a couple of videos that he is 1. Flying beyond line of sight and its not even close. 2. Flying over the interstate. If that drone battery was to suddenly dies and the drone is over the interstate it crashes on a car window then it cause a major accident. No matter if the drone is below 250g. It just caught up to you.
That's an extremely unlikely scenario but even if it did fall out of the air and even if it did hit a car it would be extremely unlikely to cause an accident.... a mini dji wouldn't even cause a dent , maybe a little smudge or scratch at best.
If it hit a motorcycle probably a bit worse. He flew up from tight streets over cars etc the reason the hobby got fckd when quadcopters became hip drones and noobs did dumb things. 12years ago we were free to fly any size even movie size quads or octo's no issue and knew they cold cut things up thus criminal charges a risk.@@12packadayhabit
@@12packadayhabit Naw bro, I strongly disagree. If a rock that hits a windshield it doesn't matter how much damage it'll cause. It would startle the driver enough to make a quick jerk of the wheel which can cause the car to to hit someone driving that fast.
Your wrong my friend. Here in Canada Transport Canada sub 250g drones have 0 regulations just use good judgement and dont be dumb. No exam, no height, road, cars, airspace restrictions nothing. People need to stop saying FAA is everywhere. Nope not here. The moment I put am attachment on then yes I would need a license and follow regulations. America and their paranoia with everything.
"I own nothing, so they got nothing!" Says the guy with every DJI product box in the background... this explanation was full of contradictions. Your egregious behavior and complete disregard is the reason you became a target. Leave the sob story out of this. Nice job Sean. Hopefully, some people will learn from this example.
I’ve watched Philly drone life a good bit over the last few months - he is likeable but nonetheless shows scant regard to following any rules - “everybody is responsible for their own actions” well if that’s the case - then that’s the way the cookie crumbles Mikey
We see drone videos all over utube that obviously have pilots who are breaking the rules, however those pilots aren't in your face about it. Curious, what does making money have to do with compliance or noncompliance with FAA regulations? I'm not seeing hourly, daily, weekly or even monthly stories about people getting hurt or huge amounts of property damage from people flying drones, what's the attraction? There is none, the gov't wants to control you and that's all there is to it.
Hi mark , I think you mean “LAW” vers Rules/ Regulations. And you are exactly right. I see a lot in today’s society where rules or regulations are confused with actual law. People even attempting to involve police (law enforcement). To enforce feelings or rules…. Lol. We all have rights and in the US we are protected under the constitution… lol. Sorry you hit a soft spot here for me I get amped up on this topic recently as the world has made a turn for the worse and soft in the past 2 years.
This guy pissed a lot of people off with his total disrespect for the hobby. He had a great story about how he got started, but he abused it and threw crap in the face of the FAA, and thinks it's funny. He really is full of crap and has done more damage to the hobby than anyone I can think of. He does it all for the clicks and his fake remorse just makes it worse. Just makes me even more angry when he calls his drone a "toy", it's not a toy dude. Even still he keeps deflecting, trying to put off the blame on others like the FAA and Ken Heron. He "lost respect for the FAA when they didn't know the rules"? Give me a break, he never had respect. He's a child looking for attention, even if it's bad attention, in fact, he loves the bad attention. I literally don't believe anything he says about his interaction with the FAA. He says he was targeted, but we all saw what he did. He broke every rule in the book and bragged about on TH-cam to get clicks. All kinds of pilots as well as myself were leaving comments on his videos asking him not to do what he was doing. But instead, he just took it to the next level. Just because he thinks the rules are BS, doesn't give him the right to break them. And then he says he has 0 money to pay the fines, but in the background the is $10k of equipment all purchased after the proposed fines. Typing this as I watch the video, it's funny how he keeps showing his total disrespect for the hobby and lack of any remorse for the damage he's done. And I call BS again when he said only 1 person reached out to him to talk about it. He was on the KH show, and OD's and Haya's as well as others. Grow up dude, take responsibility for what you have done. You say this hobby changed your life, yet you do everything you can to destroy it for everyone that come after you. The FAA has made life harder for everyone in the hobby in direct response to your actions. I really wished you would just sell all your drones and get out of the hobby so no one else will follow the example you make.
But they are toys. So is my motorcycle, my jeep, my electric skateboards and so forth. It’s not one sided. What isn’t a toy to you doesn’t mean they are not toys for others. What works for you doesn’t mean the rest of the world works exactly like it does for you. 😊
@@SeanOzz so because you consider your jeep and motorcycle a toy, do you drive it through a crowd of people? NO. you have respect for the damage it can do. Now we all break the rule a little when it comes to flying our drones Sean, I know that, but this guy blatantly does it on TH-cam for clicks. With no respect for the damage it does to the hobby and the example it sets for new drone pilots.
@@MikeMillerDrones so you are willing to crucify one person but let me ask how many mini3 range test you watch on TH-cam in the last month… lol. I dont agree either with what he is doing and I don’t think it is over sounds like he will continue to break the rules with a sub 249 I’m just not willing to hang Mikey while 75% of the other TH-camrs are doing the same crap. Hang one hang them all I guess
@@elipin4128 I don't watch range test videos. In fact, I stopped watching Billy Kyle when he flew his M3 out 10 miles over a board walk. And Ken Heron when he flew his new fpv over people in a park when he was a newbie to fpv. And then he started breaking every rule in the book to get more views. Look, we all bend the rules a little, we have all flown bvlos or flown fpv without a spotter, but these people are sensationalizing it on TH-cam to get more clicks, so they deserve what they get. Mikey's actions are referred to by the FAA when they state why stiffer rules need to be made. So he directly made your hobby harder to pursue. I am all for, do what you want, but don't hurt others. Mikey hurt you and me, whether you believe it or not.
I really haven’t watched his channel for a while but still think he’s a good person. He just got caught in something that anyone of us could find ourselves in. They “the FAA” just got him and made an example out of him, it’s in the past let’s leave it there and move on. Now it’s waiting for these companies that are looking to get us out of the air and see what happens with them because it maybe a guarantee that a few will get caught breaking rules or having birds falling out of the sky. Already picked another hobby even though I still do fly time to time, it’s just that a government agency sucked the fun right out of it.
He conveniently forgets the rules?? As a retired police officer, Ignorance is NOT an excuse to break laws/rules. He would be the FIRST one to lose his mind if somebody ran a red light and hit his car that he pays for. If the driver said “ oh you HAVE to stop at ALL red lights?, I must have forgot that” let’s see how “ Mikey” would accept that . But it’s OK for him ! A nobody trying to bend the rules to fit his narrative to gain money and fame. Even admits taking his own fans money that was meant for his fines that he never paid , that says it all…
Great video .I’m a subscriber to Philly drowned life and I enjoy watching him fly and I’m a subscriber to your channel thanks for the great videos⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’m a new drone flyer I had a dji mini 2 that flew over the eagles game just in January of 2023 … the cops got me that day which I didn’t know it was wrong but now I do…the fcc got in contact with me and and gave me a target letter with a violation number 49.usc 46306 …now im waiting too see what happens
People like this ruin it for everyone. There are rules for a reason even if we don’t like it. The 182,000 isn’t one incident it’s many incidents and he didn’t give a crap. And you need to start thinking about it. How about getting your part 107??
OL Mikey 😂. Most scary thing in the world is waiting on that call from the FAA. Mike is braver than me I went silent for a year waiting on a call from the FSDO. Lol😂
How do they track the flyer or was he arrested then reported, I’m under the CAA anyway there’s a drone is flying ten feet away and 20ft alt infront just hanging there infront of me filming, I almost got my slingshot out I know that’s against the law, I didn’t but I did think your braking the law harassing me in my private space, I’m keeping a record every time, I don’t see any use in calling the police I’m unsure what they could do the pilot could be anywhere, it also crossed my mind to active track it with my M3P would that be possible I dunno lol
Wish you the best Mikey. You're a rebel in the drone world. Just try to use a lot more common sense. I think it still holds that ignorance is no excuse for the law. That goes for all dronies as well as the clueless FAA. BTW I have to say I did like your last video.
They got Wesley varty too is everyone forgetting about him I mean he was going above the 400ft it looked like a few videos I mean if your gonna break a law and have video evidence of it I don't understand I've been fucked multiple times by the law when I did shit that was against the law its more losing the abilty to post videos go fly and enjoy it i been flying 3-4 years now and i could care less about becomming a utube sensation
He says it’s a toy , he says his mother won’t talk to him nothing is his fault ? HE CAUSED ALL THIS ACTION…. 100% HIS fault. Since you have all this time , study for your 107 and LEARN something instead of making it all up in your head !!
Under current UK vlos rules there isn't a legal hobby anymore. Nobody is going to spend 1k for a drone you cant fly further than 100m from yourself because you cant tell the orientation.
Great interview, but reading some of the comments in here, I am a little surprised at peoples lack of concern. I can appreciate how everyone thinks Mike is a great guy, and a great pilot, and that may be the case. But when you are flying above 400 ft within 200 yards of a heliport, there has to be somewhat of a repercussion, I am only judging him on his unsafe and irresponsible piloting. These safety regulations are put into place to prevent major accidents, and being a great guy or a a great pilot does not exclude you from these regulations. I watched a few of his videos and my first reaction was, it is people like this that are going to ruin the fun for the rest of us. His flying is a bad example for newbie pilots. We all have a responsibility to promote safe flying. I hope he gets it all sorted out with the FAA, but in my opinion, he deserves some sort of penalties for his unresponsible actions, so other people don't think they can fly like an idiot. To me it is similar to promoting unsafe Gun use.
“Influencers have a responsibility to those in the hobby”…. Well yeah, you literally just called yourself an influencer. Which means you have the ability to change peoples perspectives.
I get What he’s saying a lot of these laws are bs but no one would of heard of this big ordeal or his huge fine if he didn’t put it out there for all of us to see! Not like the faa put it on the world news ! Just saying I think he kicked a bees nest !
As an American it is our DUTY to not comply with BS or unconstitutional laws. When you comply, you get more rules. Don’t believe me? Just ask the Gun community.
Lunatic. I wanted to like this guy and feel for his plight, but he's arrogant and definitely shows the Addict persona. Anyone know if the fine has been finalized? Anyone who donated to pay it deserved better.
If you think about it, AI could catch everyone. But lets just say your karen Neighbors start calling or just random people? Now think about how many drones are out there? Think about how confusing the drone rules are and now you have every non drone flying person to make rules and call the FAA. Maybe they should just not regulate drones and manufacturers.
This kid is really messed up and has no business operating a drone. He would have never passed his Part 61 medical and psychological evaluation, which I’m sure the FAA took in to consideration.
Michael is wrong. His drone might be under 249-gms, but the force it exerts on someone's head is the mass multiplied by velocity. So yes, a 249-gm. drone can hurt someone, potentially badly.
Be sure to carry an umbrella made of steel, some geese feces weighs 255 grams. Geese feces that weighs 249 grams or more can "cause serious bodily harm".
This guy keeps digging himself deeper and deeper. I'm sure he's a nice guy and all but he's breaking the rules constantly. The fact that he STILL doesn't understand the basics of drone regs is just laughable. He is either not that smart or thinks he's better than everyone else.
He said he was a recovering addict, but still totally displays the addicts mentality. Irresponsible, self destructive behavior while crying "poor me". The FAA tried to be cool about it, he ignored them until the situation imploded. All the truly damaging videos have been removed, what's left is him flying over water doing a horrible Gilbert Gottfried impression.
He was warned three times.. If you can't pay the fine, he will have to do the time in federal prison. They don't mess around in the united states federal government😂
Yeap that’s that … meanwhile you are probably watching and supporting a 5 other TH-camrs doing range tests … lol Let’s not all be hypocritical 75% are doing the same shiz. The difference is he got caught. I do not agree with his thinking or what he is doing but I don’t want him crucified over something so stupid . If it was so serious there would be Laws in place and jail time not just some rules and regulations.
I think it's funny that the FAA couldn't locate me. I learned they investigated me months later after the case closed just by accident. Luckily I was doing nothing wrong.
Yes it disgusting… people actually committing real crimes do not get such punishment. But if you know how the FAA works there is more to the story here. I’m pretty sure the FAA had reached out to Mikey first to speak to him and warn or educate him first but when he disregarded the warnings is when they decided to make an example out of him with the proposed fines. I live Mikey’s channel watched him for over 2yrs he is funny and entertaining I do feel bad he had to go through this crap nonsense but hey that’s just my opinion
It is clear why this guy is in hot water. He is admitting he does what he wants and doesn't consider the safety of others in his work. Come on people, just follow the laws and authority of the FAA.
What planet are you on? FAA has the right, and the responsibility to police and regulate airspace and safe flight in USA. The literally are the police, judge, and jury in this matter.
You mean follow the rules. They aren’t laws, or in fact crimes against humanity as some making them out to be… he hasn’t done anything different than 90% of all the TH-camrs or hobbyist. Almost every channel is doing range tests with their mini3. It doesn’t make it right but let’s not just crucify one person. Unfortunately someone has to be made an example of I guess
@@elipin4128 the FAA, along with the EPA, and the IRS are legal entities that enforce the rules they set as a point of law. Nobody is going to die if I don't pay my taxes, but I will get nowhere in front of a judge with this argument. Follow the law, pay the fine, if not they can seize your bank account after a court order. Pretty much how this is going to go. This yahoo is running a business, or at least attempting to, so he should be following the law like every other pilot and not pleading like he is a 10 year old that doesn't know better. Grow up.
@@infuseme2 true, I am not disagreeing with you. I’m just saying most people are being hypocrites they are ready to crucify Mikey. It meanwhile they are either doing the same thing or supporting another TH-camr that is. Wi see how many range tests you watched on TH-cam and hit that like button.
To be certain, we have valid issues with the FAA and its maladroit response to sUAS-based advocacy. But, giving Mikey air time is not helpful to the drone pilot community.
Mike's verbosity and big personality do not help him, in dealing with a government agency. He needs to channel the personality of a mild-mannered accountant.
As I have often said... when there is insufficient enforcement available, regulators tend to "make an example" of someone in their attempt to have a chilling effect on the wider community. It sounds like this is exactly what happened to Mike and it *will* happen again in future. The best way to deal with this (IMHO) is widespread non-compliance with bad regulation but with a full commitment to never endangering people or third party property.
Hey Bruce! Thank you for taking the time to join the conversation! We will have to disagree on the way to gain good regulation!
@@Geeksvana Absolutely... my opinion is worth no more than anyone else's and I respect all points of view. Only time will tell which is the most effective solution. I've seen that compliance simply allows the wedge of over-regulation to be inserted more deeply at every point. Remember "just register, it's only $5 and it will improve safety by making people accountable" -- now "Remote ID will improve safety by making people accountable". So they lied the first time? If nobody had registered then clearly the registration diktat would have been thrown out by now.
Obviously, Bruce, you have not seen the videos of what this guy has done. The FAA is coming down on the hobby in direct response to his actions. This guy is a cancer.
@@xjet You reflect the concerns of many. But, this is probably going to go the way of the automobile (at least as automobiles did in the US). First, you had to get an identifier (license plate) attached to your vehicle. Then came the requirement for the motor vehicle operator to have a license. Then came proof of insurance. Then came mandated design specs to fit roads. Then seatbelts. Then fuel regulations. Then identifiers on parts. ... ... I posit the "wild wild west" stage of any new technology in any complex society is probably very short-lived.
@@edruttledge342 You forget... automobiles were new and dangerous. We've been flying RC model aircraft for many, many decades with an excellent track record of safety. No justification therefore for onerous burdens such as Remote ID is there?
Wow! That interview was fantastic. My perception of Michael aka PhillyDroneLife, has completely shifted from the negative portrayal his detractors have given him, to one of empathy and support.
WOWZERS! I loved the back and forth in this one! Well done Sean & Michael!
That's gonna take a few superchats to pay off!
Great interview. Mikey's a great pilot eventhough he did break regulations. I really enjoy his videos.
Thanks!
Thank you Eric!
Excellent interview by Geeksvana !! Enjoyed this ...
You should interview some Auditors , ask them if they think they are hurting the hobby.
Ofc they are. They're getting the bag and F everyone after them.
Sean, there appears to be an issue with the audio in this video. Every now and then (apparently only when Mike is talking) there's a beeping noise that means I can't hear what he's saying. 🙂
Yes appears a strange and constant issue with that 😂
I’m three hours late to the party but I’m getting myself comfortable to watch this, your content is absolutely enthralling to me, thank you so much for the amount of effort you put in 🤝✊🤜🏻🤛🏻
Flying RC fixed wing for twenty-plus years, I and over 200,000 AMA members have enjoyed not being regulated, now we are being regulated. With multiple visits to Mikey's home and telephone calls from police and federal agencies regarding his actions, and yet he continued. I am curious where he thought his actions and disobedience of the government agencies would lead. Mikey mentioned that he is not guilty, and did not commit a crime, that may be true, but what is the term for causing laws to be written that affect others? I am 100% behind people being allowed to "do your thing", as long as your actions do not involuntarily subject others to your actions. You say a 249g drone might give someone a bump on the head. Mikey is cool with that? Who wakes up and goes outside conceding daily to potentially get a bump on the head so Mikey can make his $300 a month? Where is their right to "do their thing?" Excuse me, Mikey, you are NOT the victim. Your ignorance of the guidelines is cramping the freedom of hundreds of thousands of other people. These new laws will scare away future flyers, enable power-tripping officials to harass flyers, and limit the joy that others could have had. Make another cup of coffee, turn off the computer momentarily and dwell on the freedoms of others that your actions and those of other flyers with the same mentality have actually destroyed.
Great stream. Lots of questions answered! thanks for the chapters and your proper questions! as for my thoughts on his actions, we each have to deal with the consequences of those actions, he’s a grown man & he’s got to deal with it.
Thank you! Really appreciate you taking the time to join the conversation. I agree!
After getting the FAA warnings that's when you know to calm it down
Yeap exactly !!! sounds like you know or experience how the FAA works… lol. Normally the FAA contacts you to warn you or educate the person and then if you disregard the warning is when the fines start coming… They don’t just show up blind sided with a certified letter with a $182,000 bill… lol
I made the calculation:
100m height, 250g drone and a drop on a 1.7m object aka a person equals to 144N (force from height).
100N is deadly because it equals 45 lbs of force.
This guy don't know anything about physics and he DON'T CARE!
This person DESERVE the fine!
And he will get locked up in the end because he will and can not pay the fine and keeps flying in the same manner aka providing EVIDENCE!
Absolutely irresponsibly!
Instead of driving out of the city and start the drone in the field where only the drone can get hurt ...
I’ve spent many an evening with Mikey and friends and he’s a class act. If you know Mikey, you love Mikey.❤ Great interview Sean.👍
Excellent video Geeksvana
Where is CBS, NBC or CNN? Only a real journalist, Sean Geeksvana is up to the task!!!
Thank so, kind words indeed!
Wow geeksvana, been waiting for this and u.s. regulation violation violation vid and it comes from you! Thank you. Great content, as always! I was wondering about this topic.
Thanks Patrick! We always try to show all sides of the hobby and opinion here.
Love watching this guys videos
Never Ever talk to the police without a lawyer! Do not let them in your house. If they have a warrant they will come in anyway. The cops are not your friends and it won't help you to talk to them. Be polite but just shut tf up.
I think your remark about “society” was most telling - that we need to comply with the law for the sake of society as a whole (be it in this case the wider drone society / community). Ultimately, the alternative is people pick and choose which parts of the law they follow and the end result is anarchy, potentially followed by more draconian laws and enforcement. Sure there are laws that I believe are BS, but the way to get them changed OR dropped is hard work, campaigns and lobbying. Anyway, I suspect the FAA did have a vendetta against him with all the fines but he knew he was flouting the law, and you know what they say: “if you can’t do the time, don’t do the crime.”
Hey Andy! I do agree. If we all chose which regulations and laws to follow, it would be chaos.
People already pick and choose laws every day. There too many laws.
@@EmpRebTrue. But they typically don’t post them on YT as their source of income and rub the noses of the enforcement agencies in it.
When skirting rules low key is the key. When changing the rules through the legal process loud and proud is the way. It’s really just common sense.
I just don't get where Mickey has his disconnect from reality! He's a nice, fun guy, good pilot, makes good videos and has his style. He also knows about FAA regulations, *HOWEVER,* I don't understand his mental block about Part 107!
The rules clearly state that if you do ANY kind of commercial work, which includes having a monetized TH-cam channel, you need to obtain the Part 107 certificate. Why is he refusing to take the test for $160 and be in compliance? It's clearly spelled out and his refusal and explanations do not make ANY sense!
He didn't get fined for his P107 content, he got fined for having content that requires P107 and doesn't have it!
Lastly, his argument that "nobody follows rules in the US" e.g. everybody runs the red light, well, I live in the US as well and the vast majority are following rules. Everybody violates rules on occasion, but to use this as an excuse is a pretty far reach!
Well, here we are, a year later and the charges went up to $200,000 now. Also, if a sub 249g drone is being used for commercial work, it must be registered and he must have the P107 certificate.
Mikey is a sweetheart. I knew nothing about his fines when I found his channel this year. I don't share his rule breaking idealism, but I do admire his flying skill. And the man is entertaining as hell! Hey! Stu showed up! Love that guy! Great interview @Geeksvana
I think RID will hurt the hobby more than Mikey ever could 🙃
Many would agree.
Damn straight
I tried telling this fool he was flying in an area where medical helicopters depart and land MULTIPLE times per day. It's an area where even the 400' rule can't apply. Anyone with the slightest bit of common sense would be smart enough not to do this, and even if they were flagrant about it they should be smart enough not to post it.
He just deleted the posts without ever commenting on them. I can't imagine how many other people tried the same thing. He leaves up the posts where people praise his ignorant and selfish actions. I'm amazed he hasn't caused a disaster. He's the perfect example of how one idiot can ruin a great hobby for tens of thousands.
FAA: You can't fly a drone over a city, its dangerous.
Also, the FAA: Jetairliners full of people and highly explosive flammable fuel and tired pilots go right ahead.
Had one fly over my house at around 200 feet just a week ago. A PASSENGER Plain!!!! I legit thought they were going to crash.
Yes he broke the rules , but the punishment should match he crime . I see people in court getting off on probation or less for serious assaults or robbery everyday . 182,000 is totally unrealistic . The number of deaths and serious injury from people using e scooters and there's no rules or regulations governing them. No one ever killed or seriously hurt from recreational drones ever , but the amount of regulations governing them is strangling the life out of the hobby .
What are you talking about? Escooters and anything an the roads are highly regulated by yur local state. Violate the law an you get a ticket from the local police.
@@infuseme2 Sorry but your wrong .Here they are being driven on the roads and footpaths , no helmets , no speed limit, no registration requirements
@@dronehawk dude... That is regulated too. Drive on on the street across traffic, or on a freeway. You can't drive wherever you want to go. Give that a try, you will get a ticket, and if you don't pay the fine you will go to jail. Anything that can drive on a road is regulated by the state. A child's tricycle is regulated. Where do you live that you can just drive a scooter wherever you want?
@@dronehawkim subbed to his channel doesn't seem to fit the crime exactly key point & basis for appear .....problem is could spend 50k legal (justice favours the rich)
Other thing is if Rickys drone did impact something important in accident situation there no upper limit damages $
Mom said "It is what you make of it" LMAO There is no cure
I mean Mikey had to know this was coming. I even commented on a couple of videos that he is 1. Flying beyond line of sight and its not even close.
2. Flying over the interstate.
If that drone battery was to suddenly dies and the drone is over the interstate it crashes on a car window then it cause a major accident. No matter if the drone is below 250g.
It just caught up to you.
That's an extremely unlikely scenario but even if it did fall out of the air and even if it did hit a car it would be extremely unlikely to cause an accident.... a mini dji wouldn't even cause a dent , maybe a little smudge or scratch at best.
If it hit a motorcycle probably a bit worse. He flew up from tight streets over cars etc the reason the hobby got fckd when quadcopters became hip drones and noobs did dumb things. 12years ago we were free to fly any size even movie size quads or octo's no issue and knew they cold cut things up thus criminal charges a risk.@@12packadayhabit
@@12packadayhabit Naw bro, I strongly disagree.
If a rock that hits a windshield it doesn't matter how much damage it'll cause. It would startle the driver enough to make a quick jerk of the wheel which can cause the car to to hit someone driving that fast.
Your wrong my friend. Here in Canada Transport Canada sub 250g drones have 0 regulations just use good judgement and dont be dumb. No exam, no height, road, cars, airspace restrictions nothing. People need to stop saying FAA is everywhere. Nope not here. The moment I put am attachment on then yes I would need a license and follow regulations. America and their paranoia with everything.
@@juanh1093 show me an incident where that has happened.
"I own nothing, so they got nothing!"
Says the guy with every DJI product box in the background... this explanation was full of contradictions. Your egregious behavior and complete disregard is the reason you became a target. Leave the sob story out of this. Nice job Sean. Hopefully, some people will learn from this example.
I really enjoyed Mike's videos, I totally understand what's he's saying.
Hey..wtf is this about??
Is that you in photo? You’re funniest drone channel on TH-cam. Keep it up……
Love you Mikey 🙌
@@uglybob808 yes that's me. Coming Soon. Big interview and then q and a on my channel.. 6pm Philly time on Tues night. YaHOOOOOOOOOOO...
Wowzers Mikey 👍
I cant wait to watch. Hope all is well.
I’ve watched Philly drone life a good bit over the last few months - he is likeable but nonetheless shows scant regard to following any rules - “everybody is responsible for their own actions” well if that’s the case - then that’s the way the cookie crumbles Mikey
We see drone videos all over utube that obviously have pilots who are breaking the rules, however those pilots aren't in your face about it. Curious, what does making money have to do with compliance or noncompliance with FAA regulations? I'm not seeing hourly, daily, weekly or even monthly stories about people getting hurt or huge amounts of property damage from people flying drones, what's the attraction? There is none, the gov't wants to control you and that's all there is to it.
Great interview Sean!
I think that one problem with society today is that most people don’t know the difference between a rule and regulation and these are all regulations
Hi mark , I think you mean “LAW” vers Rules/ Regulations. And you are exactly right. I see a lot in today’s society where rules or regulations are confused with actual law. People even attempting to involve police (law enforcement). To enforce feelings or rules…. Lol. We all have rights and in the US we are protected under the constitution… lol. Sorry you hit a soft spot here for me I get amped up on this topic recently as the world has made a turn for the worse and soft in the past 2 years.
@@elipin4128 Rules and regulations have the force of law, even if they aren't laws in and of themselves.
Can you imagine being the FAA inspector used to dealing with professional pilots now being asked to council this sociopath 😮
Great interview - mikey for sure has 🏈 z and very entertaining
This guy pissed a lot of people off with his total disrespect for the hobby. He had a great story about how he got started, but he abused it and threw crap in the face of the FAA, and thinks it's funny. He really is full of crap and has done more damage to the hobby than anyone I can think of. He does it all for the clicks and his fake remorse just makes it worse. Just makes me even more angry when he calls his drone a "toy", it's not a toy dude. Even still he keeps deflecting, trying to put off the blame on others like the FAA and Ken Heron. He "lost respect for the FAA when they didn't know the rules"? Give me a break, he never had respect. He's a child looking for attention, even if it's bad attention, in fact, he loves the bad attention. I literally don't believe anything he says about his interaction with the FAA.
He says he was targeted, but we all saw what he did. He broke every rule in the book and bragged about on TH-cam to get clicks. All kinds of pilots as well as myself were leaving comments on his videos asking him not to do what he was doing. But instead, he just took it to the next level. Just because he thinks the rules are BS, doesn't give him the right to break them. And then he says he has 0 money to pay the fines, but in the background the is $10k of equipment all purchased after the proposed fines.
Typing this as I watch the video, it's funny how he keeps showing his total disrespect for the hobby and lack of any remorse for the damage he's done. And I call BS again when he said only 1 person reached out to him to talk about it. He was on the KH show, and OD's and Haya's as well as others.
Grow up dude, take responsibility for what you have done. You say this hobby changed your life, yet you do everything you can to destroy it for everyone that come after you. The FAA has made life harder for everyone in the hobby in direct response to your actions. I really wished you would just sell all your drones and get out of the hobby so no one else will follow the example you make.
But they are toys. So is my motorcycle, my jeep, my electric skateboards and so forth. It’s not one sided. What isn’t a toy to you doesn’t mean they are not toys for others. What works for you doesn’t mean the rest of the world works exactly like it does for you. 😊
@@SeanOzz so because you consider your jeep and motorcycle a toy, do you drive it through a crowd of people? NO. you have respect for the damage it can do. Now we all break the rule a little when it comes to flying our drones Sean, I know that, but this guy blatantly does it on TH-cam for clicks. With no respect for the damage it does to the hobby and the example it sets for new drone pilots.
@@MikeMillerDrones I understand what you’re trying to get at. But. Yes. My toys go through crowds all the time but safely. 😊
@@MikeMillerDrones so you are willing to crucify one person but let me ask how many mini3 range test you watch on TH-cam in the last month… lol. I dont agree either with what he is doing and I don’t think it is over sounds like he will continue to break the rules with a sub 249 I’m just not willing to hang Mikey while 75% of the other TH-camrs are doing the same crap. Hang one hang them all I guess
@@elipin4128 I don't watch range test videos. In fact, I stopped watching Billy Kyle when he flew his M3 out 10 miles over a board walk. And Ken Heron when he flew his new fpv over people in a park when he was a newbie to fpv. And then he started breaking every rule in the book to get more views.
Look, we all bend the rules a little, we have all flown bvlos or flown fpv without a spotter, but these people are sensationalizing it on TH-cam to get more clicks, so they deserve what they get. Mikey's actions are referred to by the FAA when they state why stiffer rules need to be made. So he directly made your hobby harder to pursue. I am all for, do what you want, but don't hurt others. Mikey hurt you and me, whether you believe it or not.
I really haven’t watched his channel for a while but still think he’s a good person. He just got caught in something that anyone of us could find ourselves in.
They “the FAA” just got him and made an example out of him, it’s in the past let’s leave it there and move on.
Now it’s waiting for these companies that are looking to get us out of the air and see what happens with them because it maybe a guarantee that a few will get caught breaking rules or having birds falling out of the sky.
Already picked another hobby even though I still do fly time to time, it’s just that a government agency sucked the fun right out of it.
They always do and this hobby is filled with the same types that welcomed the NFA and the GCA.
Great interview BTW, I was wondering the other day how mikey was getting on
Thank you! Yes, an important update.
He conveniently forgets the rules?? As a retired police officer, Ignorance is NOT an excuse to break laws/rules. He would be the FIRST one to lose his mind if somebody ran a red light and hit his car that he pays for. If the driver said “ oh you HAVE to stop at ALL red lights?, I must have forgot that” let’s see how “ Mikey” would accept that . But it’s OK for him ! A nobody trying to bend the rules to fit his narrative to gain money and fame. Even admits taking his own fans money that was meant for his fines that he never paid , that says it all…
Fascinating discussion
Great video .I’m a subscriber to Philly drowned life and I enjoy watching him fly and I’m a subscriber to your channel thanks for the great videos⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’m a new drone flyer I had a dji mini 2 that flew over the eagles game just in January of 2023 … the cops got me that day which I didn’t know it was wrong but now I do…the fcc got in contact with me and and gave me a target letter with a violation number 49.usc 46306 …now im waiting too see what happens
It's been a year since this interview, eh? seems like ... huh... i guess a year 😊
Feels more like 12 months to me...
People like this ruin it for everyone. There are rules for a reason even if we don’t like it. The 182,000 isn’t one incident it’s many incidents and he didn’t give a crap. And you need to start thinking about it. How about getting your part 107??
Mike is my fav celebrity!
2016 he flew a mavic pro. WTF is he talking about.
INR. he keeps saying it was a sub 250 drone, but we were there then. we know what he was flying, toy my a$$.
What I dont understand is how they can fine someone twice as a 107 pilot and as a hobbyist for the same action?
@@dougj8186 I get that …. but don’t understand how they can fine him twice. Same violation under hobbyist and P107?
OL Mikey 😂.
Most scary thing in the world is waiting on that call from the FAA. Mike is braver than me I went silent for a year waiting on a call from the FSDO. Lol😂
How do they track the flyer or was he arrested then reported, I’m under the CAA anyway there’s a drone is flying ten feet away and 20ft alt infront just hanging there infront of me filming, I almost got my slingshot out I know that’s against the law, I didn’t but I did think your braking the law harassing me in my private space, I’m keeping a record every time, I don’t see any use in calling the police I’m unsure what they could do the pilot could be anywhere, it also crossed my mind to active track it with my M3P would that be possible I dunno lol
Wish you the best Mikey. You're a rebel in the drone world. Just try to use a lot more common sense. I think it still holds that ignorance is no excuse for the law. That goes for all dronies as well as the clueless FAA. BTW I have to say I did like your last video.
I know he was like oooh shiiiiiitt the FBI come on in.
They got Wesley varty too is everyone forgetting about him I mean he was going above the 400ft it looked like a few videos I mean if your gonna break a law and have video evidence of it I don't understand I've been fucked multiple times by the law when I did shit that was against the law its more losing the abilty to post videos go fly and enjoy it i been flying 3-4 years now and i could care less about becomming a utube sensation
The did! Although Wesley did deal with the problem very quickly.
He needs to get certified remote pilot 107.
He says it’s a toy , he says his mother won’t talk to him nothing is his fault ? HE CAUSED ALL THIS ACTION…. 100% HIS fault. Since you have all this time , study for your 107 and LEARN something instead of making it all up in your head !!
Weee Drone Therapy nice! 😁
So you're telling me a US government agency would lie to the public? 😲
Hey Duane! It is important to remember that the FAA and other US agencies were not able to comment on this story, so we do not have their defence.
Killers don’t get such a treatment.
Philly Mike,
Known him a while ,
I pray you are well
Looking good
Mikey is a natural born entertainer.
Under current UK vlos rules there isn't a legal hobby anymore.
Nobody is going to spend 1k for a drone you cant fly further than 100m from yourself because you cant tell the orientation.
That is CAA guidance, not the legislation. It is possible to fly further and be within UK law.
Great interview, but reading some of the comments in here, I am a little surprised at peoples lack of concern. I can appreciate how everyone thinks Mike is a great guy, and a great pilot, and that may be the case. But when you are flying above 400 ft within 200 yards of a heliport, there has to be somewhat of a repercussion, I am only judging him on his unsafe and irresponsible piloting. These safety regulations are put into place to prevent major accidents, and being a great guy or a a great pilot does not exclude you from these regulations. I watched a few of his videos and my first reaction was, it is people like this that are going to ruin the fun for the rest of us. His flying is a bad example for newbie pilots. We all have a responsibility to promote safe flying. I hope he gets it all sorted out with the FAA, but in my opinion, he deserves some sort of penalties for his unresponsible actions, so other people don't think they can fly like an idiot. To me it is similar to promoting unsafe Gun use.
Mikey you rock man 🤘FPV 🪨 🎸 Love you man. Keep on flying
Did you get this idea from reddit?
Hey Justin? Which idea?
To interview Philly drone life after seeing he had faa fines in reddit fpv thread?
No. I have known Mikey since before he was fined etc. The reason to go now was down to Mikey's choice of timing etc.
simple solution, operate as a LLC, with all of your assets in an irrevocable trust. Good luck :)
Yeah, it's that easy.. 🤪
“Influencers have a responsibility to those in the hobby”…. Well yeah, you literally just called yourself an influencer. Which means you have the ability to change peoples perspectives.
I get What he’s saying a lot of these laws are bs but no one would of heard of this big ordeal or his huge fine if he didn’t put it out there for all of us to see! Not like the faa put it on the world news ! Just saying I think he kicked a bees nest !
As an American it is our DUTY to not comply with BS or unconstitutional laws. When you comply, you get more rules. Don’t believe me? Just ask the Gun community.
Lunatic. I wanted to like this guy and feel for his plight, but he's arrogant and definitely shows the Addict persona. Anyone know if the fine has been finalized? Anyone who donated to pay it deserved better.
You should start a "go
fund me' for a lawyer. I will contribute.
They just want money !
This guy shouldn’t be allowed anywhere near a drone
Give it to Mikey, if Mikey can't fly it, no one can..
If you think about it, AI could catch everyone. But lets just say your karen Neighbors start calling or just random people? Now think about how many drones are out there? Think about how confusing the drone rules are and now you have every non drone flying person to make rules and call the FAA. Maybe they should just not regulate drones and manufacturers.
This kid is really messed up and has no business operating a drone. He would have never passed his Part 61 medical and psychological evaluation, which I’m sure the FAA took in to consideration.
Dude has pupils the size of 12" records.
I agree that you are flying under the part 101, simply because you receive money from posting your videos on YT.
Michael is wrong. His drone might be under 249-gms, but the force it exerts on someone's head is the mass multiplied by velocity. So yes, a 249-gm. drone can hurt someone, potentially badly.
Be sure to carry an umbrella made of steel, some geese feces weighs 255 grams. Geese feces that weighs 249 grams or more can "cause serious bodily harm".
who was he talking about, the snake in florida
The person remains unidentified... Only Mikey knows.
This guy keeps digging himself deeper and deeper. I'm sure he's a nice guy and all but he's breaking the rules constantly. The fact that he STILL doesn't understand the basics of drone regs is just laughable. He is either not that smart or thinks he's better than everyone else.
He really thinks he’s a “Pawn” and they are “ Using him” ???? Wow. Take responsibility and grow up, seems he prefers a pacifier.
He said he was a recovering addict, but still totally displays the addicts mentality. Irresponsible, self destructive behavior while crying "poor me".
The FAA tried to be cool about it, he ignored them until the situation imploded. All the truly damaging videos have been removed, what's left is him flying over water doing a horrible Gilbert Gottfried impression.
He was warned three times.. If you can't pay the fine, he will have to do the time in federal prison. They don't mess around in the united states federal government😂
They going after him again for $200k...
GRANDMASTER 🧐😝🥳🎯😎🙃🥳🖖
Tell Stu to use his church voice / vocabulary if he joins the interview.
Pleased to report that the bleep button survived the interview...
This guy is the Drone Flier's worst enemy. He is in violation and that that .
Hey Bill! Thank you for taking the time to join the conversation. That was certainly the one point that cannot be avoided.
@@Geeksvana He has to know that the rules are for everybody even if you disagree with them.
Yeap that’s that … meanwhile you are probably watching and supporting a 5 other TH-camrs doing range tests … lol Let’s not all be hypocritical 75% are doing the same shiz. The difference is he got caught. I do not agree with his thinking or what he is doing but I don’t want him crucified over something so stupid . If it was so serious there would be Laws in place and jail time not just some rules and regulations.
I think it's funny that the FAA couldn't locate me. I learned they investigated me months later after the case closed just by accident. Luckily I was doing nothing wrong.
The fine he got is descusting
Yes it disgusting… people actually committing real crimes do not get such punishment. But if you know how the FAA works there is more to the story here. I’m pretty sure the FAA had reached out to Mikey first to speak to him and warn or educate him first but when he disregarded the warnings is when they decided to make an example out of him with the proposed fines. I live Mikey’s channel watched him for over 2yrs he is funny and entertaining I do feel bad he had to go through this crap nonsense but hey that’s just my opinion
News Flash! The FAA has no sense of humor.
This guy sounds like he's got rocks for brains.
wow wot a dude!
It must be difficult to try to have an objective and nuanced interview with some so hyperbolic. Oh well, you tried. 😉
Team Mikey!!!
👍🏽
It is clear why this guy is in hot water. He is admitting he does what he wants and doesn't consider the safety of others in his work. Come on people, just follow the laws and authority of the FAA.
The FAA has no right to be judge jury and executioner in the US.
What planet are you on? FAA has the right, and the responsibility to police and regulate airspace and safe flight in USA. The literally are the police, judge, and jury in this matter.
You mean follow the rules. They aren’t laws, or in fact crimes against humanity as some making them out to be… he hasn’t done anything different than 90% of all the TH-camrs or hobbyist. Almost every channel is doing range tests with their mini3. It doesn’t make it right but let’s not just crucify one person. Unfortunately someone has to be made an example of I guess
@@elipin4128 the FAA, along with the EPA, and the IRS are legal entities that enforce the rules they set as a point of law. Nobody is going to die if I don't pay my taxes, but I will get nowhere in front of a judge with this argument. Follow the law, pay the fine, if not they can seize your bank account after a court order. Pretty much how this is going to go. This yahoo is running a business, or at least attempting to, so he should be following the law like every other pilot and not pleading like he is a 10 year old that doesn't know better. Grow up.
@@infuseme2 true, I am not disagreeing with you. I’m just saying most people are being hypocrites they are ready to crucify Mikey. It meanwhile they are either doing the same thing or supporting another TH-camr that is. Wi see how many range tests you watched on TH-cam and hit that like button.
To be certain, we have valid issues with the FAA and its maladroit response to sUAS-based advocacy. But, giving Mikey air time is not helpful to the drone pilot community.
I honestly don't think this interview helped Mikey at all. He just proved over and over what little respect he has for the drone community.
I hope they get Casey Neitstat for $2 million +
#FTFAA
Why did TH-cam hold this comment for approval? Hmmm….
Mike's verbosity and big personality do not help him, in dealing with a government agency. He needs to channel the personality of a mild-mannered accountant.