Always check that the following conditions are met before flying to minimize risk:

• • Weather conditions are safe: no rain, no lightning, no winds above 20 mph

  • Drone exterior is undamaged: no visible damage, especially to rotors

  • Takeoff area is clear of obstacles: at least 1 yard clear of solid obstacles in every direction, no nearby sources of airflow such as an air vent or exterior door

  • Drone operator is ready and attentive

  • Drone battery is at least 30% charged

  • Takeoff status is clear of errors and the drone has sufficient satellite connection

Have fun!

• Keep the drone within a line of sight of the pilot and/or a close-by visual observer

• Always fly with a visual observer

• Do not fly higher than 400 feet (120 meters)

  1. • Check your local airspace restrictions for lower flight altitude limits (especially if you are considering flying anywhere near an airport)

• Do not fly at night without FAA-approved lighting

  1. • Approved lighting can be purchased online to be easily mounted to the drone

• Do not fly a drone without a TRUST certification

  1. • A TRUST certification can be easily obtained with the information detailed at the top of this page

• Always conduct a preflight check using the above checklist

The FAA uses "Fly R.I.G.H.T." to spread awareness of drone safety. The acronym is as follows:

R: Register your drone

• Drones must be registered if they are not flown for recreational purposes

• Recreational drones must be registered if above 250 grams

I: Interact with others

• Local organizations, known as Community Based Organizations, exist to encourage safe flight and interaction among drone pilots

• The online community includes many people willing to engage with others about drones

G: Gain knowledge

• The FAA website contains information about drone safety and rules

• Use the FAA-approved B4UFLY app or an approved LAANC service supplier to check local airspace before takeoff

H: Have a safety plan

• Do not assume the flight will go as planned

• Know what to do if the weather changes or if other aircraft or people get too close

• Check the drone before and after flight to ensure it is safe operating condition

• Ensure you are approved to fly in controlled airspace through LAANC or the FAA DroneZone

T: TRUST and train

• The law dictates that recreational flyers must pass the TRUST test once prior to flying

• Practice flying often. Flying safely is a skill you improve at with practice!

Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) allows drone pilots to fly in controlled airspace under specified circumstances and after receiving instant authorization using the Aloft Air Control app. This helps balance air safety with drone accessibility in areas such as near airports. For more information on LAANC and how to acquire authorization, click here.

Possessing a Remote Pilot Certificate allows for greater freedom with drone use, including flying for commercial purposes. It shows a much greater level of knowledge than the TRUST certification, requiring the holder to pass an extensive exam. For more information on Part 107 certification and how to become certified, click here. We are working closely with the staff at the Birdville Center of Technology and Advanced Learning (BCTAL) to provide commercial licenses for our most committed members for free.