Best Practices for UAS Pilots in Complex Environments

Nathan Sheets • June 25, 2024

✈️ With over 10 years in aviation, including 400+ fixed wing flight hours and professional flight degrees, I'm sharing insights on reducing pilot mental workload in drone operations. From automated flight paths to leveraging visual observers, learn how to optimize focus and efficiency in complex environments. Perfect for peers, new drone pilots, and companies looking to optimize aerial missions and training.


Let me know some of your tips and best practices!

Imagine standing at the edge of a sprawling 200-acre plot, slated to become a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility. The task: to capture detailed aerial data vital to the engineer's design plans. There were multiple hurdles we needed to jump over before this mission could be marked completed. We needed to reposition multiple times to maintain regulatory compliance and ensure robust transmission connectivity. Adding to the tension, the weather forecast predicted incoming storms, which threatened to cut our mission short. We managed all of this while ensuring accurate data capture.


Introduction


Our strategy involved meticulous planning and rigorous safety protocols. We conducted thorough pre-flight inspections, mapped out detailed flight paths, and coordinated closely with a visual observer who helped monitor the drone’s surroundings. Despite the looming weather, we managed to complete the mission successfully, providing accurate data critical for the project's next steps. This experience underscored the importance of preparation, adaptability, and teamwork in navigating complex environments when it comes to UAS operations.

Introduction


Operating drones in complex environments demands a blend of skill, precision, and thorough preparation. Whether you're navigating urban landscapes, construction sites, or rugged terrains, each scenario presents unique hurdles. As someone who hails from a regulatory and safety-focused industry, I’ll share key best practices that can help UAS pilots successfully tackle these intricate operations while ensuring safety and efficiency. These tips include flight planning, decreasing the pilot's mental workload, and utilizing a visual observer.


Safety Protocols


Safety should always be the top priority. Here are some essential safety measures to follow:


  1. Pre-Flight Checks: Conduct thorough pre-flight inspections of the drone and all equipment. Ensure that batteries are fully charged, and all systems are functioning correctly.
  2. Risk Assessment: Evaluate the environment for potential hazards. Identify no-fly zones and areas with high risks of interference or obstacles.
  3. Emergency Procedures: Have a clear plan for emergency situations. Know the location of safe landing zones and establish communication protocols with your team.


Operational Tips


Here are some practical tips for successfully navigating intricate environments:

  1. Plan Your Flight Path: Carefully plan your flight path to avoid obstacles and minimize risks. Use mapping software to create a detailed route.
  2. Decrease Pilot Mental Workload: Reducing the mental workload of the pilot is crucial for maintaining focus and making quick decisions. Utilize automation features available in modern drones, such as automated flight paths and obstacle detection systems. Delegate tasks to a visual observer or other team members to allow the pilot to concentrate on the critical aspects of the flight.
  3. Visual Observer: Use a visual observer to help monitor the drone’s surroundings. A second pair of eyes can spot obstacles and potential hazards that might be missed by the pilot.


Conclusion


Flying drones in intricate environments requires a combination of thorough preparation, adherence to safety protocols, and practical operational strategies. By following these best practices, UAS pilots can ensure successful and safe operations, even in the most demanding conditions. As the industry continues to grow, sharing our experiences and knowledge will help us all improve and innovate.


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Understanding the FAA's Remote ID and Its Implications for Drone Operations

By Nathan Sheets • October 4, 2023
In the ever-evolving world of aviation, the integration of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) or drones has become a prominent topic of discussion. One crucial aspect of this integration is the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) initiative regarding Remote Identification (Remote ID) of drones. Remote ID is a system designed to enhance safety and security by providing identification and location information for drones while they are in flight. Some see it as a neccessary step to implementation of UAS into the National Airspace System (NAS). Others see it as a massive step backwards for drone flying across the country. In this blog post, we'll delve into the details of the FAA's Remote ID program, the reasons behind its delay, and the potential consequences for contractors who are unaware of the current landscape. What is Remote ID and Its Importance? Remote ID is a system that allows the real-time tracking and identification of drones while they're in operation. Its primary purpose is to address safety and security concerns associated with the increasing use of drones in various airspace. By providing essential information such as the drone's location, altitude, speed, and the location of its operator, authorities can ensure responsible drone operation and mitigate potential risks to other airspace users and the public. The Delay of Remote ID Implementation Originally, the FAA aimed to implement the Remote ID rule by late 2020, envisioning a step towards safer drone integration into the national airspace. However, the implementation was delayed, primarily due to the complexity of establishing a robust, efficient, and comprehensive Remote ID system. The most recent delay happened in September of 2023 when the FAA received thousands of notifications citing Remote ID module backlog and supply chain issues as the reason for not being in compliance. In response to these requests, the FAA pushed the enforcement of RID until March 16, 2023. At that time, all operators who are required to be broadcasting their RID information will be required to do so or face penalties. Fines and Legal Implications for Contractors As part of the FAA's efforts to promote safe and responsible drone operations, penalties and fines are imposed on individuals and entities violating regulatory requirements. This includes fines for flying without proper authorization or licensing. Moreover, contractors who hire unlicensed drone pilots may also face significant fines for non-compliance with FAA regulations. This is important for entities scaling UAS operations within their companies. If those companies are not aware or don’t know what they are doing, they can find themselves in very hot water. The fines can vary in severity based on the nature and frequency of the violation, emphasizing the importance of adhering to licensing and operational guidelines set forth by the FAA. Conclusion Remote ID is a crucial tool for enhancing safety and security in the rapidly evolving world of drone technology. While its implementation faced delays, the FAA's commitment to refining the system is a testament to its dedication to safe and responsible drone integration. For contractors and operators in the drone industry, compliance with FAA regulations and the proper licensing of pilots is essential to avoid legal repercussions and contribute to a safe and responsible drone ecosystem.  For the latest updates on the FAA's Remote ID and other drone-related regulations, stay tuned to our blog and the FAA’s website. We're dedicated to keeping you informed about the ever-changing landscape of drone technology and its impact on aviation.