In planning sessions, pilots were understandably concerned anytime they would be sharing the skies with my artillery rounds. I would jokingly assure them that it was a big sky and a little bullet, so they should be fine. Pilots rarely laughed.

Whether it is artillery rounds, birds, or drones, pilots of crewed aircraft must be on the lookout for any foreign object that may collide with them. An otherwise uneventful flight can quickly become a nightmare if a collision occurs.

Of the many dangers out there, drones are quickly rising to the top of most pilot’s concerns. With almost 800,000 drones registered in the United States, the chance of an incident occurring is a real possibility. All pilots should understand the risks, rules, and regulations associated with drones. They should also stay informed of the tools and best practices for preventing damage from a drone collision the next time they fly.

Understanding the Risks of Drone Collisions

The number of registered drones continues to grow in the United States. Along with growing numbers of UAVs in the sky, many other factors increase the risk of collisions:

• Increased drone usage
• Lack of regulation and compliance
• Human error
• Low visibility of drones due to their size
• Airspace congestion

Thankfully, the majority of pilots, especially licensed Part 107 pilots, operate drones safely. Commercial drone pilots must pass the FAA test, and many attend training in preparation for the exam. Some of the best online courses include in-depth discussions of operations around crewed aircraft. The few incidents that do occur are typically not the result of operations by Part 107 pilots.

Given the large number of drones registered with the FAA, one would expect collisions to be more prevalent. While some collisions have occurred, they are rare. This is largely due to the quality of drone pilots and the increased number of drones with improved safety features. 

To date, there have thankfully been no fatalities as a result of a drone-plane crash. Some estimates, like those of the Flight Safety Foundation, have reported that there have been about two dozen suspected collision incidents since 1997. Here are a few of the more notable ones:

• 2022: Russian drone collision with passenger aircraft near Moscow, causing substantial damage
• 2020: Drone collides with Eurocopter AS 350B-3 in Canada, causing minimal damage
• 2017: Aircraft drone collision with US Army Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, causing minimal damage

Incidents like these highlight the seriousness of the situation, as any could have resulted in more than just damage to the aircraft.

The main concern with drone collisions is the safety of pilots and their passengers. A drone is capable of causing significant damage to aircraft, potentially leading to catastrophic failure. Additionally, drones can interfere with critical aircraft systems, especially during takeoff and landing.

The potential for costly damages and loss of life means all pilots (crewed and uncrewed) must take the matter seriously.

Legal and Regulatory Framework

Before the FAA finalized the Part 107 on June 21, 2016, drone pilots had little regulation. The Part 107 is designed to allow UAV pilots to benefit from drone technology without placing undue risk on crewed aircraft.

Here are a few examples of Part 107 rules that keep drones from colliding with crewed aircraft:

• Pilots must keep drones within their unaided visual line of sight
• Drones can not be flown higher than 400 feet agl
• Pilots must have a minimum visibility of 3 miles
• Drones must follow the rules associated with controlled airspace, just like crewed aircraft

A recent addition that became a requirement in September 2023 (although not enforced until March 2024) was Remote Identification (RID). RID is a significant regulatory measure that requires drones to broadcast their ID, location, and control station information during flight. Government agencies are able to see the pilot’s personal information and the location from which they are flying.

When properly used, RID enhances airspace awareness, allowing the FAA and law enforcement to track drones in real time. This reduces security risks, ensuring compliance.

When the rules associated with the Part 107, including RID, are followed, the airspace becomes much safer. These rules keep drones flying outside of crewed aircraft space and allow for deconfliction when space needs to be shared.

Additionally, commercial drone pilots are required to report incidents to the FAA within ten days. The FAA considers an event reportable if more than $500 of damage is caused or if serious injury to a person, including loss of consciousness, occurs. Reporting helps identify and eliminate risks, ultimately increasing safety for everyone using the National Airspace System (NAS).

The Technology Behind Avoiding Drone Collisions

Rules and regulations are a great foundation to help crewed aircraft pilots avoid collisions with UAVs.

These rules help keep UAV operators flying safely, but what if the operator is untrained or reckless? That’s where technology comes in. Many technological advancements aid in avoiding a crash with a drone.

Here are four worth considering:

ADS-B Receivers and Transponders

Most pilots are familiar with Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) receivers and transponders. These devices broadcast an aircraft’s position, speed, and altitude, allowing other aircraft and air traffic control to monitor their location in real time. ADS-B enhances situational awareness and helps avoid collisions with drones.

Portable Collision Avoidance Systems

Portable collision avoidance systems, such as TCAS (Traffic Collision Avoidance System) and FLARM (Flight Alarm), provide real-time alerts about nearby aircraft and drones. These systems use radar and other technologies to detect potential threats, offering pilots timely warnings to take evasive action.

Tablet-Based Apps and Accessories

Tablet-based apps and accessories have become increasingly popular in recent years. Apps like ForeFlight and Garmin Pilot provide real-time air traffic data, weather updates, and flight planning tools. There are also apps specifically for tracking RID on drones, such as Dronetag. Paired with accessories like portable ADS-B receivers, these apps help ensure each flight is collision-free.

AR Displays for Pilots

Finally, Augmented Reality (AR) displays are an emerging technology for pilots, providing enhanced situational awareness. AR displays overlay critical flight information, including the location of nearby drones, directly onto the pilot’s field of view. This technology allows pilots to quickly identify and respond to potential collision threats, improving overall flight safety.

Drone Operator Responsibilities and Preventions

Drone pilots can be broken into two groups: commercial drone pilots (Part 107) and everyone else. In most cases, such as the 2017 collision with a Black Hawk, the pilot was not a professional UAV operator.

Part 107 pilots have a record of operating safely and complying with all laws and regulations. They perform pre-flight checks, read METAR and TAF reports, stay within authorized airspace, and operate within the parameters established by the FAA.

Everyone else may or may not understand how their actions can increase the chance of a collision. The FAA requires non-Part 107 pilots to take The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST), but enforcing this is challenging. Both crewed and uncrewed pilots need to spread best practices and regulations related to operating UAVs to anyone they know looking to fly drones.

One example is understanding and adhering to airspace classifications. For example, trained operators know how to fly in Class C versus Class B. They also understand restricted areas, including around airports and military bases. For those without training in this, apps such as Aloft can help determine whether or not a given area is safe to fly a drone in.

Manufacturers are also helping to avoid collisions. Drone anti-collision lights, GPS, and geofencing technologies installed by the OEMs help prevent collisions. Additionally, many drones have collision avoidance systems with sensors and cameras that help detect and avoid obstacles. These technologies enhance situational awareness and reduce the risk of collisions with crewed aircraft and other obstacles. It should never be forgotten that the best safety measure is the pilot.

Conclusion and Action Steps

A two-pronged approach of training drone pilots properly and utilizing advanced technology is crucial for preventing drone collisions.

Tools such as ADS-B receivers, portable collision avoidance systems, tablet-based apps, and AR displays can help pilots avoid drones near their aircraft. If you are flying without these technologies, you can learn more about them at trusted vendors like Sporty’s. 

However, no technology can replace an operator flying safely, so training all drone operators is key to preventing accidents. Only when crewed and uncrewed pilots work together toward a common goal of safety can the skies be safe for everyone. If you know a drone operator who needs help, encourage them to register with one of the many online Part 107 courses.

By learning the rules and regulations as well as adopting safety-enhancing technology, crewed and uncrewed pilots can contribute to a safer and more secure airspace for everyone.

FAQ

How many drones have collided with aircraft?

Collisions are extremely rare. Some have occurred, such as the September 2017 incident where a drone hit a US Army Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter. According to some estimates, there are around two dozen worldwide.

Do drones have collision avoidance?

It depends on the drone. Many drones now come with collision avoidance systems. Typically, smaller drones, which are designed more for recreation, do not. The best collision avoidance system is the pilot.

Where do most midair collisions happen?

There are too few collisions to support any particular location. Airports tend to be the area with the highest occurrence. This makes sense, given that aircraft landing and taking off are more likely to fly at the same level most drones are flown at.

The post Plane Pilots’ Guide to Drone Collision Avoidance Systems appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

But what authorities couldn’t determine is whether Fengyun Shi had anything to do with a spate of drone incursions over hypersensitive military installations in Virginia and Nevada in late 2023. The Wall Street Journal stitched together a report from unnamed government sources, police records, court documents, and social media photos that alleges drone swarms flew over Langley Air Force Base in Virginia over 17 nights in December and two months earlier at the Energy Department’s Nevada Security Site near Las Vegas.

The story says senior military officials saw the drones, but no action was taken because it’s against the law to shoot them down unless they pose an imminent threat.

Shi entered the picture January 6 when people in Newport News, Virginia, noticed him trying to free a drone that was stuck in a tree. They called police and he was questioned by officers who ultimately suggested Shi ask the fire department to retrieve his drone. Instead, he immediately returned his rented car, took a train to Washington, D.C., and flew to Oakland, California. The drone fell out of the tree on its own, and police found aerial pictures of a shipyard owned by Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII), which builds nuclear submarines and Ford Class aircraft carriers.

The FBI arrested Shi in San Francisco on January 18, as he was about to get on a plane with a one-way ticket to China. He pleaded guilty to taking photos of classified naval installations, and on October 2 a judge didn’t buy his story that he was a hobbyist who liked taking pictures at night.

Despite the conviction, and his proximity to the drone incursions that had occurred two weeks previously, authorities couldn’t find any evidence directly linking him to Chinese intelligence organizations.

Editor’s Note: This article first appeared on AVweb.

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“While helicopters are invaluable for their range and payload capabilities, drones complement these assets by offering quicker, more cost-effective deployment,” Skydio, one of the largest U.S. drone manufacturers, told FLYING. “Their ability to operate in challenging conditions—including wind and rain—and their capacity for remote operation from anywhere via a web browser enhances the overall safety and efficiency of the response efforts, ensuring broader and more flexible coverage.”

Since shuttering its consumer drone business to focus on selling to enterprise and public safety customers last year, Skydio has assisted operators with plenty of disaster response and recovery efforts. Even before then, the company said it provided assistance following Hurricane Ian in 2022.

“Skydio team members—many of whom live in the communities their customers serve—closely monitor developing situations such as these, proactively deploying resources to impacted areas and supporting on the ground and in real time,” the company said.

In the wake of Helene, Skydio customers are deploying drones for search and rescue, overwatch, and damage assessment. Since the storm damaged many bridges in the most affected areas, for example, customers are using drone inspections to create digital twins, helping them assess safety and accelerate the repair process.

The company said it surged available personnel, remote connectivity systems, and its X10 and X10D drone models—equipped with spotlight attachments—to regions most in need, including the Florida Panhandle and western North Carolina.

Skydio has been working with local, state, and federal agencies to prepare for and respond to Helene, including the city of Tampa, Punta Gorda Police Department, and Southern Company.

Southern Company, an electric and gas utility provider, enlisted Skydio drones to perform damage assessments with “unprecedented speed and efficiency,” per Jonathan Tinch, an uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) pilot and safety coordinator for the company.

The aircraft collected high-resolution images and real-time video of the damage, transmitting them to a command center. There, they were analyzed by experts who directed ground crews to the areas most in need of repair.

“As a result, we were able to restore power to our customers more quickly than ever before,” said Tinch.

As another major hurricane approaches, Skydio said it will offer further support.

“After what we saw in Asheville and the impact of drones there, we have doubled our efforts to support agencies responding to Milton,” Skydio told FLYING. “We have a team of people holed up in an Airbnb in northern Florida poised to be on the ground in the Tampa area the minute the storm clears and it is safe to travel.”

Also assisting with post-Helene recovery efforts are pilots, engineers, and scientists from Mississippi State University’s (MSU) Raspet Flight Research Laboratory.

Raspet, backed by Project JUSTICE—a program within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Science and Technology Directorate designed to learn about uncrewed systems by sending them on real-world missions—is supporting the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) with a massive UAS called Teros.

Built by Navmar Applied Sciences Corporation, Teros has a 44-foot wingspan and can remain aloft for 20 hours, allowing it to perform long-duration missions. Raspet deployed to Georgia on September 29 to assess post-hurricane flooding.

“Once a hurricane has passed over an inland area, the water it leaves behind is constantly moving, and that movement can be difficult to predict, especially in places where trees and other barriers might obscure water from satellite imagery,” said Jamie Dyer, a geosciences professor at Mississippi State and associate director of the university’s Northern Gulf Institute (NGI).

NGI experts tracked Helene through the Gulf of Mexico and Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina and Tennessee. Using Teros’ sensors and cameras, they collected real-time data and visuals on the movement of floodwaters, beaming it to federal entities like FEMA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

“UAS allow us to see in better detail where water is going and which areas will be impacted by flooding, which is vital information to have during a crisis event,” said Dyer. “Additionally, the data we collect will improve the river forecasting models that local, state and federal officials rely on.”

State officials with the North Carolina Department of Transportation’s Division of Aviation have also deployed drones to survey roads, bridges, and other infrastructure, flying more than 200 missions in the past week alone.

Over at NOAA, meanwhile, “hurricane hunters” are flying a pair of Lockheed WP-3Ds and a Gulfstream IV-SP—affectionately nicknamed “Kermit,” “Miss Piggy,” and “Gonzo”—directly into the eye of Hurricane Milton. Some of these missions will deploy Blackswift S0 UAS to measure temperature, pressure, wind, and humidity, which can help predict a storm’s path.

The FAA advises individual drone users or hobbyists to be mindful of temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) in place around hurricane-affected regions. Pilots who neglect to coordinate with local emergency services could inadvertently hinder their efforts, so noncommercial operators should exercise caution.

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The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Aircraft Operations Center (AOC) houses a small fleet of “hurricane hunters,” which researchers deploy to predict a hurricane’s structure, intensity, and path. And with Milton forecast to remain a major hurricane when it impacts the Tampa area on Wednesday, the data they gather will be as important as ever.

“This data will then be sent to the National Hurricane Center (NHC) and into the weather models to help us pinpoint this track forecast,” said Sofia de Solo, a NOAA flight director, in a preflight brief, “which is extra important this time around, being that the hurricane is expected to hit in a highly populous and highly vulnerable region that just got hit by Hurricane Helene.”

For more than four decades, NOAA’s AOC has managed and maintained ten crewed aircraft at Lakeland Linder International Airport (KLAL) in Florida. Among them are the hurricane hunters: a pair of Lockheed WP-3Ds, or P-3s, affectionately dubbed “Kermit” and “Miss Piggy”, and a Gulfstream IV-SP nicknamed “Gonzo.”

“Kermit” and “Miss Piggy” are designed to fly directly into hurricanes. The four-engine turboprops handle both storm research and reconnaissance when called upon by the NHC, measuring storm structure and intensity, producing real-time forecasts, and scanning for indicators of deadly storm surges. These missions typically take the P-3s into the eye of the storm to measure its central pressure.

“Gonzo,” meanwhile, flies above and around hurricanes with its range of about 4,000 nm and cruise altitude of 45,000 feet. NOAA uses the G-IV to study weather systems in the upper atmosphere surrounding a storm, which can help predict its path. According to the agency, it has flown around nearly every Atlantic-based hurricane that has posed a threat to Americans since 1997.

Outside hurricane season, the aircraft are also used to study weather phenomena such as the El Niño system, atmospheric gases over the North Atlantic, and winter storms on the U.S. Pacific coast.

“Miss Piggy” so far has made two flights into Milton, passing through the eye of the storm multiple times in what NOAA calls a “butterfly pattern,” used to identify the center of a hurricane.

“Essentially, every time we pass through the center, we’re going to get a look at the structure of the storm,” said Jonathan Zawislak, a NOAA flight director.

During each pass, the P-3 released dropsondes, which NOAA describes as “weather balloons in reverse.” These expendable devices float on the ocean surface and collect temperature, dew point, wind speed, and pressure data, which can help researchers predict intensity and pathing. The aircraft also produced 3D imagery of Milton using its tail doppler radar.

“Gonzo” so far has flown three missions to collect readings on the air and water in front of Milton, which can “steer” the storm. The G-IV also released dropsondes and gathered tail doppler radar data, beaming it back to the NHC.

“On satellite imagery, the storm presents itself very small. It has a very small pinhole, and due to the intensification, the storm is evacuating air at a very rapid rate,” said de Solo during the preflight briefing. “Up at where we’re flying at 40,000 feet, we’ll feel that.”

NOAA hurricane hunters use tail doppler radar to create 3D imagery of storms, such as this map of Hurricane Sam from September 2021. [Courtesy: NOAA]

According to NOAA, similar missions will be flown before Milton makes landfall. On Tuesday, hurricane-force winds and a life-threatening storm surge are expected across the north coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. The hurricane will remain “extremely dangerous,” NOAA and the NHC said Tuesday morning, and could produce an “extremely life-threatening situation” along Florida’s west coast, where a hurricane warning is in place.

“Preparations to protect life and property in the warning areas should be complete by tonight,” the agencies said in an update on X.

NOAA also intends to deploy uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) to assist its hurricane hunters. The agency owns two such systems, the Altius 600 and Blackswift S0, that measure temperature, pressure, wind, and humidity both for storms and the ocean surrounding them. Both aircraft are deployed from the P-3 and piloted remotely, capable of staying aloft for up to four hours.

Aircrews eject the drones from beneath the aircraft at about 220 knots, transporting them as close as possible to the eye of the storm. Data is beamed directly from the UAS back to the P-3, which then sends it to the NHC. The drones are capable of going places crewed aircraft cannot, particularly near the ocean’s surface.

As Hurricane Helene approached the U.S. Southeast, “Miss Piggy” and “Kermit” deployed several Blackswifts to study its composition and path. NOAA told FLYING the agency will fly similar UAS for similar missions as Milton grows closer.

NOAA and the NHC encouraged the public to pay attention to the latest Milton updates on the NHC’s website, noting that forecasts are constantly shifting.

Some NOAA hurricane hunter missions are supported by the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron, also known as the Air Force Reserve Hurricane Hunters. Stationed at Keesler Air Force Base (KBIX) in Biloxi, Mississippi, the 53rd deploys a WC-130J Super Hercules to survey storms in the Atlantic, Pacific, Caribbean, and Gulf of Mexico for the NHC.

A spokesperson for the Hurricane Hunters told FLYING the squadron flew three missions apiece on Sunday and Monday, with two more scheduled for Tuesday. It flew nine reconnaissance missions into Hurricane Helene last month.

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The airspace surrounding hurricane-impacted areas in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee is inundated with small airplanes, helicopters, and drones, the FAA said. In western North Carolina, there has been a 300 percent increase in traffic, it estimates.

The National Guard has deployed more than 200 vehicles and aircraft, while general aviation pilots are making supply drops. Officials at the Military Aviation Museum in Virginia Beach, Virginia, said they are coordinating with partners to deploy a World War II-era Douglas C-47 which previously assisted during the Berlin Airlift to ferry donations.

Local charities and other groups have requested further volunteer assistance from pilots.

“The FAA’s goal at all times is to ensure safety and help facilitate this critical work,” an agency spokesperson said in a statement shared with FLYING. “At the request of local authorities or law enforcement, the Federal Aviation Administration can issue Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) to ensure safety for aircraft conducting Hurricane Helene rescue and recovery activities.”

These TFRs can be found on the FAA’s website and are constantly being updated, the agency said. Drones and other aircraft can still support disaster relief and recovery efforts within restricted airspace, but civilian and volunteer operations will first need to coordinate with emergency responders.

According to the North Carolina Department of Transportation, Asheville Regional Airport (KAVL), Hickory Regional Airport (KHKY), and Foothills Regional Airport (KMRN) are “hubs of Helene activity and for general aviation pilots.” Airspace in eastern Tennessee is also congested, the FAA said. It urged pilots to check flight restrictions around those locations specifically.

At Asheville Regional, GA pilots are advised to gain clearance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) before attempting to land. The North Carolina Division of Aviation is implementing prior permission required (PPR) at Asheville Regional and Rutherford County Airport (KFQD) and expects to issue PPR at more busy sites throughout the weekend.

The FAA further warned that many airports in the hurricane’s trail do not have a control tower and directed pilots to the rules for Non-Towered Airport Flight Operations. Ramp areas are particularly congested, it said.

State and local authorities may enact their own airspace restrictions. They may also request that the FAA establish an Airspace Coordination Area (ACA), which the agency describes as “a heads up about an unusual situation and/or congestion that pilots should be aware of.” An ACA does not restrict flight—rather, it gives pilots important guidance about the airspace.

FAA personnel are further coordinating airspace at the North Carolina Emergency Operations Center, giving priority access to emergency services.

The FAA advised pilots seeking to deliver supplies to work with community organizations that can advise on local airport capacity. It also suggested pilots tanker fuel through busier airfields in order to reduce fuel demand.

Drone pilots, meanwhile, must fly under Part 107 rules or FAA public aircraft requirements. Crewed aircraft will always have the right of way, and operators should be mindful that mountainous terrain can make it difficult for pilots to see drones in their path.

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On Tuesday, Wing, the drone delivery arm of Google parent Alphabet, and Serve Robotics, a manufacturer of sidewalk delivery robots, announced a pilot partnership in Dallas, where Wing has been delivering hot food, beverages, household staples, and other items since April 2022.

The drone delivery firm since August 2023 has been working with the world’s largest retailer, Walmart, to expand that service to an estimated 1.8 million households in Texas’ Dallas-Fort Worth metro area.

And now that the FAA has authorized Wing and competitor Zipline to manage their own airspace in North Texas, enabling deliveries beyond the visual line of sight (BVLOS) of the pilot, the company’s delivery network has the potential to be one of the world’s largest.

“We have been delivering food and other goods directly to consumers for over five years, completing more than 400,000 commercial deliveries across three continents,” said Adam Woodworth, CEO of Wing. “We have a proven ability to make deliveries quickly and efficiently…Through this pilot partnership, Wing hopes to reach more merchants in highly-congested areas while supporting Serve as it works to expand its delivery radius.”

To support its growing coverage area, which according to Walmart will soon cover three-quarters of the area’s population, Wing is enlisting Serve and its autonomous sidewalk robots.

In the next few months, certain Wing deliveries will instead be picked up by a Serve robot from the restaurant’s curbside. The self-driving robot will travel a few blocks to a Wing Autoloader, which can grab deliveries from the vehicle on its own and position them to be picked up by drone.

Typically, Wing relies on store associates to drop orders curbside for the AutoLoader, but there isn’t always room for restaurants to install a drone operation onsite.

Once the drone picks up the order, it can fly as far as 6 miles. According to the partners, the combined system will enable 30-minute deliveries to the entire city.

“Together, Serve and Wing share an ambitious vision for reliable and affordable robotic delivery at scale,” said Ali Kashani, CEO and cofounder of Serve. “Our end-to-end robotic delivery solution will be the most efficient mode for the significant majority of deliveries.”

Wing believes adding Serve robots will make its deliveries faster, avoiding gridlock by traveling both in the air and on the sidewalk. Both vehicles are fully electric, and because they are automated, there is no need for the customer to tip. Restaurants, meanwhile, do not need to make any changes to their facilities to accommodate Wing drones.

At a Walmart Supercenter in the Dallas suburb of Frisco, for example, Wing’s operation requires the space of about two rows of parking lots—which isn’t much, but the company seeks to be as asset-light as possible.

The firm also aims to make customers’ lives easier via integrations with DoorDash and the Walmart app, allowing them to place orders through a familiar interface. Serve, meanwhile, has a partnership with Uber Eats in Los Angeles, a market Wing has yet to tap into.

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WASHINGTON, D.C.—Within the next month, the FAA will release a final rule outlining pilot certification and initial operations for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) air taxis and other powered-lift aircraft, a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) official said Thursday.

At Honeywell’s third annual Advanced Ait Mobility (AAM) Summit in Washington, D.C., Christopher Coes, acting undersecretary of transportation for policy within the DOT, said a highly anticipated special federal aviation regulation (SFAR) defining the rules will be published in the next few weeks.

“The department has a final rule for our powered-lift operations, and we expect that that will be published in the next month,” Coes said. “And I think you will see it is quite responsive to the industry’s comments.”

Industry Raises Concerns

The FAA published a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) for the powered-lift SFAR in June 2023. The rule would set alternative training and eligibility requirements for certifying powered-lift pilots as well as create operational rules for passenger and cargo transport.

But the document was decried by a collective of stakeholders, spearheaded by the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), who took issue with many of the agency’s proposals.

Namely, industry groups believe powered-lift training courses should credit existing rotorcraft and airplane category certificates, and pilots should be able to add a powered-lift rating directly to those permissions. They urged the FAA to lower the threshold for powered-lift flight hours, remove a requirement that limits training to dual control aircraft, and allow more training in simulators.

The groups also argue that performance-based—rather than prescriptive—rules should be used for powered-lift flight, such as by applying airplane and rotorcraft rules as appropriate rather than creating a new category of operations.

Kristie Greco Johnson, senior vice president of government affairs for the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), said Thursday that members are seeking a “practical pathway” to AAM integration. And the SFAR could be that pathway.

“AAM isn’t a future Jetsons concept,” Johnson said. “It is actually happening right now in our airspace.”

Amanda Joyner, managing director of government affairs for GAMA, agreed with Johnson and said members are hopeful that the SFAR will help them to get their products on the market quickly. Eventually, investment into AAM manufacturers will dry up if the firms are unable to demonstrate a product, so a final rule could help them begin to turn a profit.

What It Means

The deadline for a powered-lift SFAR is December 16, as mandated by the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 signed into law on May 16—a provision that was lauded by industry organizations, private companies, and lawmakers alike.

The FAA earlier this week missed the bill’s September 16 deadline to issue a NPRM for beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) drone flight. But Andrew Miller, a staffer on the Senate Commerce Minority Committee, and Alexander Simpson, a staffer on that chamber’s majority counterpart, said they are confident the FAA will meet the SFAR timeframe. Hunter Presti, a staffer on the House Majority Transportation Committee, is optimistic but believes it will be tight.

According to Simpson, should the agency miss its deadline, existing standards and regulations for rotorcraft and fixed-wing aircraft would apply to powered-lift models.

Coes said his office is simultaneously developing a U.S. national strategy to safely integrate AAM operations alongside conventional aircraft. That plan has been in the works for over a year and is under department review.

The initiative will require an interagency review and final briefing to Congress, “but I am confident that this will be a set of documents that can be championed by the industry, by academia, by labor, our state and local partners, as well as Congress,” Coes said.

Coes added that his team is working with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s AAM study group to harmonize international consensus on AAM standards, practices, and procedures. The goal, he said, is to ensure the U.S. takes the reins on those provisions.

Conference attendees including Coes hope the FAA and other federal agencies will be able to use the Los Angeles Olympic Games in 2028 as a showcase for AAM technology. The event could also serve as a proving ground for the integration of AAM aircraft with other transportation systems.

In support of that effort, the FAA last year released its Innovate28 blueprint for air taxi integration. Earlier this year, the agency proposed comprehensive certification criteria for AAM aircraft, laying the groundwork to get them approved to fly.

But there is still a long way to go, and the powered-lift SFAR—whenever it is released—will be a key part of the process.

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Choosing the best racing drone depends on various factors such as price, speed, size, weight, agility, transmission speed, battery life, and motor power.

To help you find the perfect match, we’ve compiled a list of the top-rated racing drones on Amazon, complete with their features, pros, and cons. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or a newcomer, considering these aspects will guide you to the drone that best fits your needs and maximizes your chances of success.

Did you know commercial drone operators are required by the FAA to be licensed? Online courses such as those provided by Altitude University and the Pilot Institute will help you achieve success as a commercial drone pilot.

Pass the Part 107 test, take to the skies, and start earning money.

Quick Look: Best Racing Drone

• Best for overall features: iFlight Nazgul XL5
• Best for value: EMAX Tinyhawk II Freestyle
• Best for pocket drones: BETAFPV Cetus Pro
• Best for all skill levels: APEX VR70
• Best for overall design: DJI Avata 2

5 Racing Drone Options

Racing drones come in all shapes, sizes, and skill levels. There are a lot of options for racing drones and we did not have the opportunity to review them all.

But we did choose these five to showcase. As we begin the downhill slide toward the end of 2024, here are five racings drones you can grab on Amazon today:

iFlight Nazgul XL5

Notable for: Overall features 

This 5-inch standard Freestyle drone redefines performance and value. Featuring an ATF435 flight controller, BLITZ 1.6W VTX, and BLITZ E55S 2-6S 55A ESC, the Nazgul XL5 ECO delivers unparalleled performance and reliability. Made for true racers looking to build a drone from the ground up, this model starts with a carbon fiber frame and an aluminum camera mount offering lightweight durability while ensuring it withstands rigorous flights and crashes. The included GoPro mount provides versatility for capturing your epic freestyle flights, making it perfect for both recreational and professional use. Take your flying experience to new heights with Nazgul XL5 ECO, the ultimate racing drone choice for those seeking a balance of performance, durability, and value.

Camera quality: Depends on the build

Flight time: Up to 18 minutes, depending on the build

Configuration: The pilot will need to build from the ground up.

Special features: 

• Lightweight and durable construction: Made from a combination of carbon fiber and aluminum, ensuring robust protection for camera equipment without adding excessive weight.
• Anti-spark filter: When built according to iFlight specifications, includes a protective circuit to prevent rapid voltage or current spikes, extending the lifespan of XT60 connectors and protecting electronics from damage.
• Clear video output: Designed to prevent propeller obstruction in the video feed, enhancing the quality of aerial footage.
• Built-in buzzer and receiver mount: Facilitates easy maintenance and adjustments, improving user experience.
• DIY customization space: Equipped with standard 20×20 and 30.5×30.5 mounting holes, allowing for flexible and seamless integration of various flight stacks and VTX systems.

Benefits: 

• Enhanced durability: The carbon fiber and aluminum build provide exceptional durability, making the drone resilient to crashes and impacts.
• Improved safety: The anti-spark filter protects electronic components from damage, ensuring longer-lasting performance.
• Superior video quality: The design eliminates propeller interference in the video feed, resulting in clearer and more aesthetically pleasing footage.
• User-friendly maintenance: The built-in buzzer and receiver mount make it easy to maintain and adjust the drone, enhancing the overall user experience.
• Versatile customization: The flexible mounting options allow users to tailor their setup to their preferences, accommodating various flight stacks and VTX systems.

Disadvantages: 

• Complexity for beginners: The advanced features and customization options may be overwhelming for novice users new to drone racing.
• Additional costs: Customizing and maintaining the drone may require additional purchases of compatible parts and tools, potentially increasing the overall cost.

EMAX Tinyhawk II Freestyle

Notable for: Value

The EMAX Tinyhawk II Freestyle stands out as the best racing drone for value due to its optimized power system, featuring 1103 7000KV motors and AVAN Rush 2.5-inch propellers, which maximize flight time and efficiency. Its redesigned frame accommodates a higher-quality camera, enhancing the FPV experience with clear video transmission, eight times more powerful than its predecessor. Constructed from aerospace-grade 3K woven carbon fiber, the Tinyhawk II Freestyle offers exceptional durability and a stylish design. With speeds up to 120 km/h, it provides an unparalleled racing experience for its class. Additionally, EMAX offers a worry-free warranty, ensuring customer satisfaction and support.

Camera quality: Good, much better than its predecessor

Flight time: Four minutes

Configuration: Ready to fly

Special features: 

• Optimized power system: Features 1103 7000KV motors paired with AVAN Rush 2.5-inch propellers, providing excellent grip and thrust for various flying conditions.
• Enhanced FPV camera: Accommodates a high-quality RunCam Nano2 camera, ensuring clear and immersive video quality during flights​​.
• Powerful video transmission: The video transmission system is eight times more powerful than its predecessor.
• Durable construction: Built from aerospace-grade 3K woven carbon fiber, the drone is both lightweight and highly durable​.
• Versatile battery support: It supports both 1S and 2S HV batteries​.

Benefits:  

• Improved flight efficiency: The optimized power system maximizes flight time and efficiency.
• Superior video clarity: The high-quality camera and powerful video transmission provide clear and immersive FPV visuals.
• Robust durability: The carbon fiber construction ensures the drone can endure crashes and impacts​.
• Exciting racing experience: Capable of reaching speeds up to 120 km/h.
• User-friendly design: Features such as the built-in buzzer and receiver mount facilitate easy maintenance and adjustments.

Disadvantages: 

• Complexity for beginners: The advanced features and high-speed performance may be challenging for new pilots to handle.
• Short flight time: Despite its optimized power system, the flight time is limited compared to larger drones, necessitating frequent battery changes.

BETAFPV Cetus Pro

Notable for: Best pocket design

The BETAFPV Cetus Pro stands out as the best pocket racing drone for several reasons. Designed with FPV beginners in mind, it features an auxiliary flight function that simplifies operation, making it accessible for new pilots. Its powerful brushless motors allow for fast flying, racing, and freestyle maneuvers, helping users quickly progress from novices to advanced pilots. The drone offers three flight modes—normal, sport, and manual—with three speed settings, catering to various pilot preferences and environments. Additionally, its altitude hold function ensures stable hovering, and the self-protection feature safeguards the drone by enabling emergency landings during control loss or low battery situations. The innovative turtle mode allows the drone to flip itself upright after landing upside down, eliminating the need for manual retrieval and enhancing the overall flying experience.

Camera quality: Good but not great

Flight time: Four to five minutes

Configuration: Ready to fly

Special features: 

• Flight modes: Three flight modes—normal, sport, and manual—each with three speed settings (slow, mid, and fast).
• Altitude hold function: Allows the drone to maintain a stable hover at a set height.
• Brushless motors: Powerful brushless motors provide durability and better performance for fast and agile flying.
• Turtle mode: Enables the drone to flip itself upright if it lands upside down.
• Self-protection function: The drone can perform an emergency landing during control loss or low battery.

Benefits: 

• Beginner friendly: The auxiliary flight function and multiple flight modes make it accessible for FPV beginners.
• Versatile performance: The powerful brushless motors and multiple speed settings allow for various flying styles, from slow and controlled to fast and agile.
• Stable hovering: The altitude hold function ensures that the drone can hover stably indoors, making it easier to control and fly.
• Easy recovery: Turtle mode allows the drone to flip itself over after a crash, reducing the need for manual retrieval and minimizing downtime.
• Safety features: The self-protection function provides peace of mind by ensuring the drone can safely land or disarm during emergencies, reducing the risk of damage or loss.

Disadvantages: 

• Limited battery life: Very short flight times
• Complexity for true beginners: If you have never flown a drone, some features may be difficult to learn.

APEX VR70

Notable for: Ease of use for all skill levels

The APEX VR70 is an excellent racing drone for all skill levels due to its immersive VR flight experience, providing real-time, smooth visuals through FPV goggles with a 120-degree field of view. Its manual flight capability, combined with low-latency goggles, allows experienced pilots to perform freestyle maneuvers with precision. For beginners, the altitude mode offers stable, easy-to-control flying, making it perfect for practice before advancing to manual mode. The drone comes with three batteries, extending the flying time to 15-18 minutes, ensuring longer sessions of enjoyment. Additionally, the APEX VR70 supports other 5.8G FPV goggles, enhancing the shared experience with friends, and its after-sales guarantee ensures any product issues are promptly addressed.

Camera quality: Good but not great

Flight time: 15-18 minutes

Configuration: Ready to fly

Special features: 

• Camera: 1080p resolution, providing clear and immersive FPV visuals.
• Flight time: Up to 18 minutes per battery, with three batteries included for extended flying sessions.
• Transmission: Low-latency 5.8G transmission ensures responsive control and smooth video feed.
• Weight: Lightweight at 0.66 pounds (30 grams), making it agile and easy to handle.
• Dimensions: Compact size at 3.54 x 3.54 x 1.57 inches, ideal for both indoor and outdoor flying.

Benefits: 

• VR immersive flight experience: The included FPV goggles offer a super-wide 120-degree field of view, providing a real-time and smooth immersive flying experience.
• Beginner-friendly modes: The altitude mode stabilizes the drone for easy control, allowing beginners to practice and improve their skills before moving to more advanced modes.
• Durable design: Built to be drop-resistant, the drone can withstand crashes, making it suitable for novice pilots who are still learning.
• Extended flying time: With three batteries included, pilots can enjoy longer flying sessions without frequent recharging.
• Easy recovery with Turtle mode: The innovative Turtle mode allows the drone to flip itself upright if it lands upside down, reducing the need for manual retrieval.

Disadvantages: 

• Propeller issues: Propellers may occasionally pop off during flight, although replacements are included and easy to find.
• Camera quality: While the 1080p camera is good, some users might find it lacking compared to higher-end drones, particularly in low-light conditions.

DJI Avata 2

Notable for: Overall design 

The DJI Avata 2 stands out as the best racing drone for overall design due to its immersive flying experience, providing real-time visual feedback through FPV goggles that make you feel like you’re in the cockpit. Its intuitive motion control system allows effortless maneuvering with natural hand movements, making it accessible even for beginners. The drone’s ability to perform acrobatics like flips, rolls, and drifts without extensive training elevates any pilot’s flying skills. With a 155-degree FOV and a 1/1.3-inch image sensor, it captures stunning 4K/60fps footage, offering a unique visual experience. Additionally, the built-in propeller guard enhances safety and durability, allowing pilots to fly confidently in various environments.

Camera quality: Excellent

Flight time: 23 minutes

Configuration: Ready to fly

Special features: 

• Intuitive motion control: Hand movements control the drone, simplifying flying for beginners.
• Built-in propeller guard: Enhances safety and durability.
• Super-wide 155-degree FOV: Captures expansive, immersive footage.
• 4K/60fps video capability: Delivers high-quality, detailed video.
• LightCut app compatibility: Facilitates easy content creation with templates.

Benefits: 

• Immersive FPV experience: Feels like flying from the cockpit.
• User-friendly controls: Simplifies flying for novices.
• Dynamic acrobatic capabilities: Enables professional-looking maneuvers.
• Safety for indoor use: Propeller guards make it safer to fly indoors.
• High-quality visuals: Produces stunning, detailed footage. 

Disadvantages: 

• Higher price point: More expensive compared to some other FPV drones.
• Shorter flight time: Battery life may be limited for extended sessions.

What Is a Racing Drone?

A racing drone is designed for speed and agility as opposed to hovering, for which a hobby or professional drone is designed. Both can be FPV drones, but racing drone cameras are typically mounted on the front of the drone since the drone is usually moving forward. Racing drones also have faster transmitters, better antennas, and the ability to stop and accelerate faster than hobby drones.

How Does Racing a Drone Work?

Pilots of racing drones must maneuver over, under, and around obstacles throughout a designed course at speeds of up to 120 mph. Racing drones have the ability to test pilots’ skills, requiring them to pull off acrobatic feats at incredible speeds. Many pilots even like to design and build their own racing drones.

What to Consider With a Drone for Racing

Here are several factors to consider when selecting a drone for racing, depending upon your skill level, budget amount, and desired features: 

Configuration

Racing drones are available in different configurations. Most hobby drones or beginner drones come ready to fly (RTF), meaning they are functional right out of the box and require little to no assembly. 

Bind and fly (BNF) drones come without a radio controller, which you will have to supply and bind to your drone. Some enthusiasts prefer the range and capabilities of a purchased controller. 

DIY or almost ready to fly (ARF) are terms referring to kits that allow beginners or pros to build a custom drone. This type of racing drone allows pilots to understand the technology at a deeper level.

Expertise Level

Beginners typically prefer to purchase RTF racing drones because they are cheaper and can sustain crashes, which will happen more frequently until your skill level builds. Racing drone pilots with higher skill levels often prefer DIY kits or building from scratch due to the ability to customize their drones. 

Beginners can also build their own drones, as DIY kits are less complex than in the past. However, keep in mind that the cost can exceed that of an RTF drone.

Build

The weight and design of your racing drone will affect how it flies. Also, a sturdy frame will help minimize damage in a crash, and the weight of the frame will impact the control of your drone. 

If it’s too heavy, you will lack mobility, but if it’s too light, your drone will lack control. A standard, proven frame is recommended for your first build. Choosing a frame with enough space to fit your desired components is also important.

Goggles or Monitor

To view the flight path of your racing drone, you can use FPV goggles or an LCD screen located in the control unit. Using an LCD screen allows you to see the whole picture and see multiple views at once, and they are affordable. 

However, you will have to fight glare in brighter areas. FPV goggles are lighter and smaller, use less battery, and block sunlight, but they are costlier than LCD screens. You may also find FPV goggles slightly disorienting until you become used to using them.

Camera

It is important to have a camera with a clear image and high resolution. FPV cameras work on analog, so the resolution is measured in TVL, as opposed to the ratio measurement of digital resolution. 

A FPV camera can typically have a TVL of 420, 460, 700, or 800. It is recommended to have a camera with a resolution of 80 TVL, so you have clear image quality and minimum latency issues.

Transmitter and Receiver

The transmitter sends the camera’s feedback to the receiver in real time, which is essential because you do not want to miss an obstacle causing a crash. To avoid this issue, you will require a transmitter and receiver that are powerful enough to get the job done. 

These will mitigate the risk of latency during the video transmission. You will need to ensure that your transmitter and receiver are compatible and that the power is sufficient for your desired range and transmission speed.

Racing Drones for Beginners and Pros 

Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro, a DIY “drone engineer,” or a straight-out-of-the-box drone pilot, there is a perfect drone on the market for you. You now know what options exist for purchasing the best racing drone for you.

So, the next step is to subscribe to FLYING Magazine. That will make sure you stay on top of the latest and greatest information about drones along with all other aspects of the exciting world of aviation.

FAQ

How fast are drone races?

Skilled quadcopter pilots are capable of flying racing drones across three-dimensional courses at speeds of up to 120 mph.

Do racing drones break when they crash?

Racing drones are typically more expensive than hobby drones, and thus, more durable. Although, they can still break when they crash if the impact is hard enough. The propellers are the most vulnerable part and should be thoroughly checked if your racing drone crashes.

What makes a racing drone fast?

There are four components to a drone that create speed and make a racing drone faster—frame,  motor, propellers, and battery.

The post Best Racing Drones appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

The agency intends to use this software to more effectively track its increasing number of uncrewed aerial systems (UAS), which are vital for investigating accidents. The NTSB does not have a centralized system for tracking its drones, which are used to capture video and photos of incidents and perform mapping and photogrammetry.

In its posting, the NTSB notes that, until recently, its UAS program has been operated on a small scale, with just five drones, four active crewmembers, and one program lead. Documentation of fleet assets and personnel was managed manually through basic spreadsheets and databases, a process the agency described as “archaic” and “inefficient,” making it difficult to maintain a robust safety management system.

The NTSB said it has recently launched its UAS Flight Operations program—expanding its aircraft fleet from five to 12 drones—and has increased personnel to a team of 15.

“Implementation of a solution for both aircraft and program management will serve to improve the effectiveness and integrity of NTSB investigations,” the agency said.

Editor’s Note: This article first appeared on AVweb.

The post NTSB Working to Streamline Drone Program appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University on Tuesday announced a partnership with the Advanced Air Mobility Association (AAMA), a nonprofit initiative working with the private sector, universities, government, and other stakeholders to create “road maps” for the introduction of AAM aircraft, tailored for major U.S. cities. Under the agreement, AAMA will leverage the expertise of Embry-Riddle faculty and provide students with opportunities for project collaboration, internships, and more.

AAMA was launched publicly in April and is led by president and CEO Antonio Campello, an Embraer executive of more than 30 years who most recently headed Embraer-X—the company’s innovation arm and technology incubator.

Johann Bordais, president and CEO of Embraer air taxi arm Eve Air Mobility, a spinoff of EmbraerX, sits on the group’s board, which also includes Bristow Group executive David Stepanek and Republic Airways executive Charles Hillis. Both Bristow and Republic are Eve partners.

In addition, AAMA adviser Frank Di Bello previously served as president and CEO of Space Florida, an Eve investor. Michael Amalfitano, who sits on Eve’s board, is on Embry-Riddle’s board of trustees.

However, Campello told FLYING that AAMA receives no funding from Embraer or Eve and is fully agnostic, working with all platforms and OEMs and favoring no company. He said the group has been inviting AAM operators, aircraft manufacturers, industry groups, universities, and city governments to help build the ecosystem needed to bolster a new wave of transportation.

Passenger- or cargo-carrying electric air taxis, for example, will require vertiports, special takeoff and landing sites fitted with chargers and other equipment. Designing, building, operating, and regulating these sites will be a collaborative effort.

AAMA intends to establish “readiness laboratories,” where stakeholders can create and implement a minimum viable product (MVP). Businesses use MVPs, which typically are designed with just enough features to be usable for early customers, to gauge the feasibility of an idea. Essentially, the group is looking to launch a beta version of an AAM ecosystem and receive feedback from customers on how it could be improved.

AAMA will use funding generated from membership fees, grants, events, and fees charged to use its readiness labs to create reports describing how different regions can integrate air taxis and other novel aircraft. Per a pitch deck viewed by FLYING, it will also advocate for key regulations on Capitol Hill.

According to Embry-Riddle, AAMA will work with university faculty that lead AAM programs, such as within the Eagle Flight Research Center. Kyle Collins, an assistant professor of aerospace engineering and the director of the center, said it has been exploring the topic for years.

Embry-Riddle students will also be able to work directly with AAMA members on projects and will have opportunities to intern with the association and its member organizations.

“We’re excited to see our team of experienced professionals collaborating with researchers, faculty, and students to propose innovative and customized solutions aimed at implementing a safe and efficient advanced air mobility ecosystem in cities and regions across the globe,” said Campello.

Separately, Embry-Riddle is collaborating with the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which manages Orlando International Airport (KMCO), to explore the integration of AAM operations at that site. In addition, researchers are working under a $1.4 million NASA grant to study how air taxis can take off quietly and safely in dense urban environments and turbulent conditions.

It’s unclear how much access AAMA will be granted to those projects, but the organization will hope to glean insights from top aviation experts.

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