Ask Drone U artwork

Ask Drone U

722 episodes - English - Latest episode: 25 days ago - ★★★★ - 414 ratings

We’re Drone U, a group of guys who have turned their passion for flight into a profitable business. We love hearing from our fans, and we love helping by answering their questions. That’s why we started the Ask Drone U podcast in 2015. Since then, we are one of the largest, most popular DAILY drone podcasts out there. Each episode features an actual question submitted from someone just like you! We wish we could answer everyone’s question(s), but we’ll do our best to get through as many of them as we can. So plug in those headphones because it’s time to learn together about everything drone: FAA, insurance, business strategies, videography, drone tips, flight techniques, drone tricks, expert advice, cameras, gimbals, and so much more. #askdroneu

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Episodes

BONUS: Kittyhawk Launches Dynamic Airspace – A Comprehensive Solution That Gives Drone Pilots Greater Control Over Airspace

March 06, 2019 20:12 - 21 minutes - 49.2 MB

In today's very special show, we are joined by John and Josh from Kittyhawk to discuss their new Dynamic Airspace Platform, a comprehensive all-in-one solution for enterprise users. You will also learn about Kittyhawk's plans to rehaul FAA's B4UFLY app. Kittyhawk's Dynamic Airspace Platform is an enterprise compliance and planning solution that distills airspace complexity to an easy to use format. Features such as color-coded maps, mobile access for LAANC, and a customizable experience will...

ADU 0952: Can I Fly Under the Same Part 107 Daylight Waiver If I Start Working at a Different Company?

March 05, 2019 15:03 - 6 minutes - 16.3 MB

Today's question is about Part 107 daylight waivers to fly at night. Our caller, Devin, is changing jobs. At his previous organization, he was listed as the RP on the Part 107 daylight waiver for flying at night. However, the waiver also listed the name of his previous organization. When Devin starts working for his new employer, can he fly under this same waiver? Can he get into trouble with the waiver office for doing so? Tune in and hear us recommend a suitable course of action for Devin...

ADU 0951: Do I Need a Formal Degree to Become a Drone Pilot?

March 04, 2019 17:44 - 25 minutes - 59.4 MB

In today's show, we discuss if formal education is necessary for becoming a successful drone pilot. Our caller, Josh from New York is thinking of getting a formal degree in drone technology. Should Josh go ahead and invest thousands of dollars in formal education? Does a four-year degree matter when you enter the marketplace? This question creates an interesting standoff between Paul and Rob. While Paul places more importance on real-world experience, Rob feels that getting a formal educati...

BONUS: Drone News – B4UFLY App by Kittyhawk, Hobby Pilots to Use LAANC

March 02, 2019 06:27 - 20 minutes - 46.4 MB

Hobbyist Pilots to Use LAANC, Kittyhawk B4UFLY App, Drone Shoot Down, DJI Geofencing in Asia-Pacific, Oil Spill in Canada, NYC Drone Film Festival, SAR in Fremont In this week's drone news, our first big story is about a new FAA law which mandates that hobbyist pilots use LAANC as well. Until now, there have been many hobby pilots who have not been notifying the ATC before flying in controlled airspace. So, is this new law a step in the right direction? Also, we discuss the timely launch of K...

ADU 950: Can I Use the Mavic 2 Zoom for Drone Mapping?

February 28, 2019 19:00 - 9 minutes - 22.3 MB

In today's show, we discuss whether you can use the Mavic 2 Zoom for drone mapping. With alternatives like the Phantom 4 Pro and now the Phantom 4 Pro RTK available, is the Mavic 2 Zoom even an option worth considering? Our caller, Joe from Omaha, Nebraska is wondering if the Mavic 2 Zoom is suitable for drone mapping. Can Joe build an accurate drone map using the Mavic 2 Zoom which has a rolling shutter? To answer Joe's question, Paul shares how he created a helicopter model using the Phant...

ADU 0949: LiDAR | Mapping an Area with Dense Vegetation

February 27, 2019 20:27 - 20 minutes - 47.4 MB

How Do I Accurately Map an Area with Dense Vegetation? In today's show, you will learn why LiDAR is your best bet for creating a bare earth model of an area with dense vegetation. Our caller, Cody wishes to survey a 20-acre property with dense foliage. He is wondering if he can generate an accurate map by using photogrammetry and Aeropoints. To answer Cody's question, we first discuss the difference between photogrammetry, a passive technology; and LiDAR, an active technology. Will using Li...

ADU 0948: How Do I Get Airspace Approval To Fly Near An Airport Without LAANC?

February 25, 2019 13:23 - 11 minutes - 27.3 MB

In today's show, we reveal how a drone pilot can get speedy airspace approval to fly near an airport without LAANC. Our caller wishes to fly in controlled airspace near an airport. Unfortunately, the airport does not have LAANC. How can our pilot get airspace approval? Of course, he can apply for airspace approval using FAA's DroneZone. However, this is a cumbersome process that can take up to 90 days. Can a drone pilot get airspace approval for an airport quickly without LAANC? In this sho...

BONUS: Drone News – Matrice 200 V2, Osmo Plus, Phantom 4 RTK, Drones for Spotting Sharks, SAR, Police Drones

February 22, 2019 19:52 - 24 minutes - 55.4 MB

Matrice 200 V2, Firmware Updates for Osmo Plus and Phantom 4 RTK, Drones for Spotting Sharks, SAR in Michigan, NYPD's Drone Policy and More by Ask Drone U In this week's drone news, our first story is about DJI announcing the release of the Matrice 200 V2. Learn how enhanced data security and additional hardware might make more drone applications possible. Yes, that's right. This upgraded enterprise-level solution is equipped for nighttime and BVLOS operations. Next, we discuss the latest fi...

BONUS: ULC Updates “Tort Law Relating To Drones Act”. How Will The Passage Of This Proposed Law Affect Drone Industry?

February 22, 2019 10:02 - 46 minutes - 106 MB

In today’s episode, we talk about the Uniform Law Commission (ULC) and their work on the “Tort Law Relating to Drones Act.” Vic joins Rob for this significant and animated discussion. ULC first proposed the "Tort Law Relating to Drones Act" in March of 2018. Back then, we analyzed this proposed Bill in great detail and revealed how the passage of this Bill would have severely restricted airspace, making commercial drone operations nearly impossible. Fortunately, this first draft was scrapped...

BONUS: Interview with NTSB’s Cathy Gagne – How Are Drones Being Used For NTSB Investigations?

February 20, 2019 15:04 - 22 minutes - 52.3 MB

In today's show, we are joined by Cathy Gagne, technical analyst with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Cathy kicks it off by giving us a brief overview of her work at NTSB. We then discuss how many airplane crashes occur each year and how NTSB investigates those crashes. You will learn how incorporating drones into their workflow has allowed NTSB investigators to extract actionable insights with greater efficiency. Is using drones for accident reconstruction significantly fa...

BONUS: Skywatch vs. Verifly vs. Droneinsurance.com | On-Demand Drone Insurance Comparison

February 19, 2019 15:56 - 19 minutes - 45.4 MB

Does Verifly Really Offer the Cheapest On-Demand Drone Insurance? On today's episode, we compare on-demand insurance offered by the three major providers - Skywatch, Verifly, and Droneinsurance.com. By the end of the show, you'll be able to determine which provider is the right one for your needs. We chose this topic because of the paralyzing effect that multiple insurance options can have on drone pilots. Not only that, but making the wrong choice might mean improper coverage and unnecessar...

ADU 0947: How to Fix Weak Signal Strength While Flying Your Drone

February 18, 2019 18:54 - 13 minutes - 30.6 MB

In today's show, we discuss how pilots can boost the signal strength of their drones. Also, is it common to encounter weak signal strength while out flying? If so, what are some practical ways of resolving this? Our caller, Dan from Ohio, is experiencing low signal strength when flying his Phantom 4 Pro. To deal with this problem, Dan is using parabolic antennas. Is that the right thing to do? We also discuss the most likely causes for low signal strength and provide some EXPERT tips to fix ...

BONUS: Drone News | Drones for Landmine Detection, Oklahoma Drone Laws, DJI Geofencing, Search & Rescue

February 15, 2019 18:06 - 17 minutes - 40 MB

In this week's drone news, you will learn about Oklahoma drone laws, FAA's new requirement, and believe it or not...drones for landmine detection. Tune in now! Phantom 4 Pro for Landmine Detection and FAA's New Requirement In this week's drone news, our first story is about drones being deployed as landmine detectors. Yes, you read that correctly. We explain how students have modified the Phantom 4 Pro to detect Russian-made butterfly mines. The next story is about the FAA's new requirement m...

ADU 0946: Can I Fly My Drone Over Indian Reservation Land?

February 15, 2019 10:45 - 20 minutes - 47.2 MB

Today's question is about flying over Indian Reservation land. Specifically, do Native Americans hold the sovereign right over Indian Reservation land AND airspace? Our caller, Mike from Albuquerque, has asked us an interesting question today. Since New Mexico is home to many Native American tribes, Mike is wondering if drone pilots face greater restrictions while flying over Indian Reservation land. In this show, first and foremost, you will learn whether or not you can fly over Indian Res...

ADU 0945: Which Is the Best Drone for Filming Soccer Practice?

February 13, 2019 20:32 - 25 minutes - 59.5 MB

Today's question is, surprisingly, about soccer practice. More specifically, what is the best drone to buy if you want to film soccer practices or similar activities? And, what safety measures do you need to consider for such applications? Our caller, Steve, a college soccer coach is a complete novice when it comes to drones. Steve is keen on purchasing a drone with a good camera and decent flying time. So what's the best option for Steve? Is it the versatile Mavic 2 Enterprise, the Inspire ...

ADU 0944: How to Become a Pro Video Editor and Best Showcase Your Drone Videography

February 11, 2019 19:25 - 20 minutes - 46.3 MB

In today's show, we reveal some video editing Tips & Tricks. What are some recommended tools and resources to master video editing, and showcase your work in the best possible way? Our caller, Cam, is working on his demo reel. Cam is confident about his flying abilities but falls short when it comes to video editing. Cam has extraordinary flying skills, but can he get away with average video editing skills? Probably not. In this show, you will learn some Tips, Tricks, and Resources which wi...

ADU 0943: As a Drone Service Provider, How Do I Position My Company for Long-Term Success?

February 08, 2019 18:04 - 17 minutes

Today's question is about staying relevant in a competitive drone marketplace. How can small UAV operators successfully rival large players, and increase the value of their drone business? Our caller, Todd from Ohio is keen on starting his own drone business. He is planning on taking up drone mapping jobs and is contemplating purchasing the Inspire 2 for the same. However, Todd is worried that large players with greater resources will eventually edge out small UAV operators like him. In ord...

ADU 0942: What Are the Consequences of Shooting Down a Drone?

February 07, 2019 17:50 - 21 minutes

In today's show, we discuss a serious issue that can also be fatal - drone shoot downs. Does Federal law apply in such a scenario? And, what are some procedures that will help you deal with such an extreme situation should it arise? Our caller, Sebastian from North Carolina, has raised an important issue that is hampering the growth of our drone industry - the issue of shooting down drones. Sebastian is wondering if Federal law 18 U.S.C. 32 applies to drone shoot-downs too. In order to adeq...

ADU 0941: Why Isn’t Flying in FPV Mode More Popular?

February 06, 2019 18:47 - 11 minutes

Today's show is about flying in FPV mode. Are there any particular reasons why flying in FPV mode is not preferred? Our caller, Dan has come up with a great question today. Dan is wondering if it is possible to grab some cool footage by flying in FPV mode. In order to answer Dan's question, we first explain FPV mode in layman's terms. We explain why flying in FPV will result in undesirable footage in most cases. There are some rare instances, however, when flying in FPV mode is recommended....

ADU 0940: Is a Phantom 4 RTK Consistent or Should You Augment with PPK GPS?

February 06, 2019 08:10 - 26 minutes

Today's show is about using the Phantom 4 RTK for creating survey grade maps. Can you get reliable data with the Phantom 4 RTK? And is there any rationale in using a PPK GPS system like Aeropoints anymore? Adam from North Carolina has just formed a new drone services company. Adam is wondering if he can rely on the Phantom 4 RTK for creating survey grade maps. Great question. In order to answer this, we share our own experience using the Phantom 4 RTK. You will learn if you can reliably con...

ADU 0939: Dos and Don’ts for Flying Your Drone over a National Park

February 04, 2019 13:07 - 19 minutes

In today's show, we share HOW you can fly your drone over a National Park. You will learn some important dos and don'ts for flying legally and responsibly. Our caller is unsure if the law allows him to fly his drone over National Parks. While flying over National Parks is permissible, there are certain dos and don'ts that you need to observe if you wish to stay out of trouble. In this show, we discuss NPS' stance on this issue, the need for a permitting system, and much, much more. Thanks fo...

BONUS: Mavic 2 Enterprise Dual Review

January 30, 2019 20:50 - 30 minutes

Can You Use the Mavic 2 Enterprise Dual for Applications Such as Public Safety, Search and Rescue and Solar Inspections? In today's show, we are joined by Jon McBride from Rocky Mountain Unmanned Systems to discuss suitable applications, specs and workflow for the Mavic 2 Enterprise Dual. We kickstart this informative show by discussing if the small sensor size on the Mavic 2 ED is a hugely limiting factor. You will learn the correct workflow for using the Mavic 2 Enterprise Dual for critica...

ADU 0938: How to Capture Action Sports in the Best Possible Way Without Blurring the Subject

January 29, 2019 14:49 - 7 minutes

Today's show is about using drones to shoot action sports. How do you prevent blurry footage while shooting high speed, action sports? Our caller, Carl Smith from Saint George, Utah used his Phantom 4 Pro to capture some mountain biking footage. Unfortunately, his footage was blurry and far from desirable. Tune in to discover some of the top reasons for blurry footage in action sports - and some simple yet effective ways of preventing this. Thanks for the great question, Carl. Fly Safe! Mak...

ADU 0937: The Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 Is out of Stock. Is DJI Coming out with the Phantom 5?

January 28, 2019 13:00 - 13 minutes

Today's show is about the current Phantom 4 V2.0 shortage. Does this mean that we will see a new Phantom being launched soon? Or, is there another reason? Our caller, Jonny, from San Diego has been trying to get his hands on the Phantom 4 V2.0. It's certainly puzzling that this hugely popular drone has disappeared from the shelves. Is it because the Phantom 5 is about to be launched soon? Check out our Drone News episode where we discussed this situation at length. Meanwhile, we also discus...

BONUS: Drone News – Newark Airport Drone Sightings, DJI Fraud, Firmware Updates to Phantom 4 RTK, Mavic 2 and More by Ask Drone U

January 26, 2019 07:02 - 16 minutes

In this week's drone news, our first story is about a $150 million DJI fraud. According to industry speculations, this is just the tip of the iceberg, and this fraud could, in fact, be much larger. Has this led to a shortage of Phantom 4 drones in North America? And will this have a negative impact on DJI's plans to come out with an IPO in 2019? The next big story of this week is about the flight disruptions at Newark Airport due to "alleged" drone sightings. Apparently, flights were halted ...

ADU 0936: Can You Create Drone Maps Without a Licensed Surveyor?

January 25, 2019 04:19 - 27 minutes

In today's show we discuss states laws governing drone mapping. Do you really need a surveying license to create drone maps? We clarify what you CAN do and CANNOT do as a drone mapper without a surveying license. Our caller, Michael recently got into trouble with the North Carolina Board of Surveying. And, for what? Believe it or not, Michael was just trying to create some drone maps for progression reporting. First of all, do states have the right to enact laws? We debate whether or not Mic...

ADU 0935: Can I Get Accurate Measurements with Previous Surveys and Scale Constraints?

January 23, 2019 13:38 - 16 minutes

Today's question is about drone surveying. Is it possible to create an accurate drone model using previous surveys and scale constraints? Our caller, Elan from Trinidad has come up with an interesting question today. Elan is wondering if data from previous surveys and scale constraints can be used to get accurate measurements. Can Elan do away with GCP's altogether by adopting this approach? And, what if traditional survey data is erroneous? Towards the end of the show, Paul shares a simple...

ADU 0934: Can You Use the Mavic 2 Zoom for Drone Mapping?

January 22, 2019 14:36 - 12 minutes

Today's show is about the Mavic 2 Zoom. Can you create accurate maps and models using a zoom camera? Our caller, Joe from Nebraska is unsure if he can use the Mavic 2 Zoom for drone mapping. In order to answer his question, Paul shares his experience with the Mavic 2 Enterprise. Can you really use the Mavic 2 with its rolling shutter for drone mapping? If yes, are there any precautions that you need to take while using a zoom camera. We also discuss the zoom capabilities of the Z30 camera, ...

ADU 0933: Can I Take off and Land from a Stationary Vehicle?

January 21, 2019 15:33 - 16 minutes

Today's show is about taking off and landing from a stationary vehicle. Do Part 107 rules rules permit you to do so? And, is it really safe to take off from your own vehicle? Our caller, Mike from Maryland wants to avoid potential conflict with onlookers as he flies over public land. To address this problem, Mike is contemplating flying from a trailer attached to his vehicle. Is this a smart thing to do? Will Mike end up flouting Part 107 rules by doing so? We also discuss how Mike can avoi...

BONUS: Drone News – Flight over People, Night Ops, New Drone Laws in Canada and UK, Indemnis Parachute, Search & Rescue and More by Ask Drone U

January 19, 2019 06:12 - 18 minutes

Paul and Haye are back with the most interesting and exciting news from last week. We kickstart this show by talking about the long drawn Government shut down, and how it is affecting the drone industry. You will also learn how the UK has reacted to the Gatwick drone "incident" by introducing new drone laws. Canada is another country to announce new drone laws. Do these new laws place greater restrictions on drone pilots? And, is the FAA adopting a more scientific approach in comparison? In...

ADU 0932: RTK Drone | Can you Capture More Accurate Data?

January 18, 2019 15:16 - 12 minutes

Does a RTK Drone on the Market Calculate Camera Sensor Position, and Is High Accuracy Possible Without RTK? Today's question is about using a RTK drone for generating greater accuracy. Can you create accurate survey grade maps with non RTK drones as well? Our caller, Ken from NJ has come up with an interesting question as always. Ken is wondering if you are able to pinpoint accurate positions in real time using this new technology. With the launch of the Phantom 4 RTK drone and then Yuneec R...

ADU 0931: The FAA Releases Proposed Rules for Flight over People, Night Ops and Much More

January 17, 2019 13:00 - 38 minutes

In today's show we discuss FAA's NPRM which might make flight over people and night operations possible. FAA just released a Notice of Proposed Rule Making (NPRM) which can affect drone operations in a big way. These proposed rules reveal that FAA is planning on doing away with waivers for flying over people and at night. How can you comply with these new rules and qualify to fly at night or over people? In order make flight over people a possibility, the FAA has divided operations into 3 c...

BONUS: CES 2019 – Drone Insights, Yuneec H520 RTK, Autel Evo, Waterproof Spry Drone

January 14, 2019 03:11 - 5 minutes

Which were some of the most exciting drone launches at CES 2019? Join us as we deep dive into the drone space at CES 2019. Yuneec showcases an RTK drone with a thermal dual camera, Autel showcases the Geo fence free Evo. Swell Pro shows off the waterproof Spry. Join us for our first intensive weekend of mapping instruction in the New Year from January 18-20, 2019 in Charleston, South Carolina. Make sure to get yourself the all new Drone U landing pad! Get your questions answered: https://t...

ADU 0930: What Are the Rules for Flying Your Drone near a Train?

January 10, 2019 15:52 - 9 minutes

Today's question is about flying your drone near a train. Can you get into trouble for doing so? And can a flying drone distract the driver and cause a derailment? Our caller, Houston Brown, has come up up a unique question today. He wishes to fly near a train in order to grab some cool shots. Does the law permit him to do so? Can a drone pilot jeopardize the safety of train passengers? For all this, and more, tune in to the latest show of Ask Drone U. Thanks for the great question, Houston....

ADU 0929: Is It Worth Buying the DJI Zenmuse Z30?

January 08, 2019 13:00 - 12 minutes

Today's question is about the DJI Zenmuse Z30. Is it worthwhile shelling out nearly 10 grand for the Zenmuse Z30? Our caller, Joe, is wondering if it is worth spending the extra moolah after the Z30? In order to answer Joe's question, we discuss the capabilities of the Z30. What are some suitable applications for this high-end DJI camera? Commercially, is the Mavic 2 Zoom a more viable proposition? Tune in to listen to Paul and Rob as they do a thorough cost-benefit analysis. Thanks for the...

BONUS: Drone News – Severn Bridge Drone Incident, Government Shutdown, Mavic 2 Improvements, CES 2019 and More by Ask Drone U

January 05, 2019 03:50 - 17 minutes

We kickstart this week's drone news by talking about yet another drone incident in UK. Learn how the Severn Bridge running between England and Wales was shut down due to a drone operator. We also share how the Government shutdown is affecting Part 107 registrations and other FAA services in a big way. In addition, industry insiders have been speculating that Samsung is gearing up to compete against DJI. We also reveal the latest improvements that DJI is making to the Mavic 2. Other news incl...

ADU 0928: Can You Fly Higher in a LAANC Area with Elevation Variance?

January 03, 2019 18:47 - 10 minutes

In today's show, we discuss some tips and tricks for getting around altitude limitations in a LAANC area. Our caller, Houston, is planning on flying in a LAANC area with lot of elevation variance. Can he fly higher if he is at a higher elevation? We address Houston's query and discuss if there is any advantage in flying higher. Thanks for the great question, Houston. Fly Safe! Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/. Join us for our first intensive weekend of mapping instructio...

ADU 0927: Am I Limited to 99 Waypoints on My Phantom 4 Pro?

January 02, 2019 14:29 - 11 minutes

Today's show is about the maximum number of waypoints on your Phantom 4 Pro. Are you really limited to 99 waypoints? Our caller, David, from Boston, is facing a rather unique issue with his Phantom 4 Pro. He is unable to go beyond 99 waypoints. Is David facing this issue because of his drone or mapping application? You will also learn why it is necessary to stick to a standard mapping application like Pix4D. Thanks for the great question, David. Fly Safe! Join us for our first intensive wee...

ADU 0926: Expert Tips for Achieving Survey Grade Accuracy in Drone Mapping

January 01, 2019 06:16 - 22 minutes

In today's show you will learn the correct workflow for achieving survey grade accuracy in drone mapping. Our caller, Josh from UK needs to map really large tracts of land ranging from 1 acres to 5 acres. What steps does Josh need to take in order to create a really accurate drone map/model? We kickstart this episode by discussing the importance of educating yourself before taking on complex mapping jobs. You will discover the nuances of different RTK and PPK GPS systems. What are the pros ...

Bonus: Drone News – Gatwick Airport Crane, Indonesia Drone SAR, New Matrice Series from DJI and More!

December 28, 2018 14:38 - 13 minutes

"Alleged" drone sightings at Gatwick, Reasons behind the Aeromexico flight crash, New Matrice M200 and M210 and Drones for Good Today we showcase that last weeks news of a drone spotted at Gatwick airport ended up being a crane. We also explore some of the findings from the Aeromexico flight and showcase new FCC filings that indicate a new Matrice M200 and M210 are in the works. Listen up for more information on how drones are saving lives in Indonesia. Join us for our first intensive weeken...

ADU 0925: How to Install Drone Anti Collision Lights

December 27, 2018 03:42 - 10 minutes

How Do I Correctly and Safely Install Anti Collision Lights on My Drone? In today's show, you will learn some great Tips and Tricks for safely and correctly installing drone anti collision lights. Our caller, Ken wishes to install drone anti collision lights on his Phantom 4 V2. Is it okay to put anti-collision lights on the top of your drone? Will you end up hitting a prop or interfering with your GPS signal if you do so? Part 107 rules require that you maintain a visibility of 3 miles. But...

ADU 0924: Christmas Special – How Drone Technology Will Change Our Lives in the Next 5 Years

December 24, 2018 13:00 - 30 minutes

In today's Christmas Special, we share how drone technology can impact our lives in 5 years. You will learn how technological advancements will allow us to harness greater benefits from this amazing technology across varying walks of life. Paul and Rob speculate if drone deliveries will finally set flight. We reveal some little known facts about Amazon's drone delivery program, and how conducive drone regulations and better technology will make critical applications like medical deliveries a...

BONUS: Drone News – Mavic 2 Enterprise Dual Thermal, Gatwick Airport Shutdown, T16 Agricultural Drone, Vaccine Delivery by Ask Drone U

December 21, 2018 17:32 - 23 minutes

This weeks drone news showcases that the Haye and Paul were correct in the prediction of the Mavic 2 Thermal drone, but were unaware of its secret features that vastly increase the capability. In addition, drones have shut down airport operations at Gatwick airport causing chaos during the busiest travel week of the year.  Focusing on positive drone uses, Drones are providing air support to remote islands that need vaccines in the Pacific.  This news and so much more on this week's episode o...

ADU 0923: How Do I Stand out and Differentiate My Drone Business in a Crowded Market Place?

December 21, 2018 07:13 - 24 minutes

In today's show, we reveal how drone pilots can carve out a niche in a crowded market place. With competition constantly rising, what steps can drone pilots take to stay relevant and even expand their drone business? Our caller has come up with an interesting question today. Our caller is struggling to deal with the intense competition. We discuss how focusing on different aspects of your drone business can help you not only retain your existing clients, but add new ones. Tune in to learn t...

ADU 0922: Do I Need to Get My Part 107 License and Insurance If I Am Offering Free Drone Services?

December 19, 2018 13:00 - 11 minutes

Today's question is about the steps that you need to take BEFORE venturing into the drone industry. Is it advisable to get your Part 107 certification and drone insurance before accepting your first job? Our caller, Lauren, is planning on taking up her first drone gig. And she is not going to get paid for it. So, she is wondering if she should get her Part 107 license and insurance before doing so. Also, is it advisable to form a LLC from the get-go? We discuss the recommended steps for kick...

ADU 0921: Drones for Agriculture | Is the Agriculture Drone Business Viable?

December 18, 2018 18:27 - 19 minutes

Can I Build a Profitable Agriculture Drone Business? Today's show is about drones for agriculture. Can agriculture drone business prove to be a lucrative industry for you? Our caller, Ken from NJ has come up with a detailed and thoughtful question today. With industries like real estate getting intensely competitive, what are some other lucrative opportunities for drone pilots? We discuss if the agriculture drone business can be a viable business proposition. How can a mapping application l...

BONUS: Are Surveyors Using the Phantom 4 Pro RTK?

December 17, 2018 19:32 - 26 minutes

Today we have Jason Daniello from NexGen Surveying to discuss the Phantom 4 Pro RTK accuracy and workflow. Are they replacing the existing surveying workflow system with the P4 RTK? Does the P4 RTK actually write RTK data to images? Do you really need the base station and internet dongle? All these questions and more answered on today's episode. Join us for our first intensive weekend of mapping instruction in the New Year from January 18-20, 2019 in Charleston, SC Make sure to get yoursel...

BONUS: Drone News This Week – Mavic Thermal, BVLOS Waiver, Loc8 Search and Rescue Software, Xiaomi’s Fimi X8 SE with Drone DJ

December 15, 2018 03:20 - 27 minutes

Paul and Haye are back with some more interesting drone news for this week. We kickstart this show by sharing an important DJI update. Will DJI come out with a thermal camera for the Mavic 2E on December 17th? We speculate on this important development. Our next story is about Drones for Public Safety. We share how police departments across the nation are setting up drones teams to beef up their public safety efforts. Will the ability to fly BVLOS finally allow drone deliveries to take flig...

ADU 0920: Can You Harm a Drone Battery If Your Car Turns off While Charging?

December 13, 2018 17:33

Today's question is about charging your drone batteries. Is it a problem if your car shuts down while you are charging your drone batteries? Our caller, Phil has come up with an interesting and highly relevant question today. Should you be worried if your car shuts down as you are charging your drone batteries? We clarify whether you will lose your battery charge, and whether this will shorten your drone battery life. This is a show you do not want to miss. Tune in now! Join us for our firs...

ADU 0919: How to Vet and Correctly Assess the Skill Level of a Drone Pilot

December 12, 2018 19:42 - 30 minutes

In today's show, we share various ways you can correctly assess the skill level of a drone pilot. Is it wise to simply rely on flying hours? If not, which are the other important parameters that you should consider? Our caller is wondering if flying hours is an accurate indication of flying skills. Rather than the total quantum of flying hours, should you place more importance to the job type? Can monitoring drone flight via apps help you vet a drone pilot? This show is loaded with some gre...

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