Whether you're a drone expert or just starting out, there are a few common things every drone user should think about before starting to fly. Like with most activities, drone flying can take a while to get used to. But once you're fully trained, you'll be able to have safe, successful flights. In order to help you avoid making common drone mistakes, we've put together a few basic best practices when it comes to flying drones.
Safety First
As cliche as it may sound, safety should always come first when it comes to drone flying. Not only should you focus on protecting yourself, but you also need to consider the wellbeing of others. Because of this, flying your drone should be done responsibly and safely. Below are a few tips to help get you informed about basic drone safety.
- Fly your aircraft within your line of sight, always making sure you can see it. If you're flying at night, lights can help you identify and keep track of your equipment.
- Follow the rules for no-fly zones. This typically involves places like airports and large stadiums where drone presence may cause serious issues. In fact, before flying within five miles of a helicopter or airport, drone users must speak to the airport and control tower.
- Always inspect your equipment before flying.
- Do not fly recklessly. While it may seem fun, it is dangerous and disrespectful to those around you.
- Take a flight lesson or join a club for drone enthusiasts. Not only will this help further your knowledge of drone safety and tips, but you'll also get to meet people who are interested in the same things as you.
Practice Makes Perfect
In order to stay safe while exploring with your drone, you need to learn as much as possible about its technology and potential risks. As a responsible operator, you should thoroughly read through the owner's manual and practice small flights before taking on big tasks. It may take a while to get the hang of, but if something goes awry, you can always contact a drone repair service.
Flying First-Person
Many drone enthusiasts enjoy flying first-person view by using the camera attached to the equipment. While this gives the user a unique flying experience, it can become dangerous if the user is not paying attention to their surroundings or flies the drone out of sight without knowing. In order to remain safe while flying first-person view, users should bring a friend to be a spotter and watch the drone, clearly communicate with surrounding drones, and fly only in open, secluded areas.
Plan Ahead
Planning is a crucial step in having a successful flight. Not only should you thoroughly inspect their equipment before taking off, but you should also note all functions necessary for your flight. These factors include location, secure wiring connections, GPS, weather, and potential dangers. After your flight, you should log any valuable information that can be used for future endeavors.
If you follow the rules, be safe, and ensure your equipment is correct, you should be all set to take off. It's important to remember these best practices, even if you've been flying for a long time.