Drone Usage and Safety Tips for Beginners in Newberry County

Drone Usage for Beginners in Newberry County

NEWBERRY COUNTY — Drones continue to revolutionize the way we capture and explore the world around us. From providing unique perspectives of our surroundings to supporting various professional applications, these camera-equipped aerial devices have captivated hobbyists and professionals alike. According to a survey by the Pew Research Center in mid-2017, eight percent of Americans owned a drone and nearly sixty percent had witnessed one in action. Predictably, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) forecasts that drone sales would hit seven million units by 2020.

Given their multifaceted utility, drones are increasingly being utilized in diverse applications. Real estate agents use them for capturing bird’s-eye views of properties for promotional purposes, while construction firms utilize them to assess topography ahead of any groundwork. Not far behind, educational institutions are harnessing their power to showcase their campuses from unique perspectives.

However, this massive surge in drone ownership and usage also brings forth safety concerns. The FAA unveiled a new drone registration system on December 21, 2015, and within a month, over 181,000 drones were registered. This database aids in averting potentially hazardous situations, like drones operating in restricted airspace.

Tips for Novice Drone Operators

Flying drones, especially in restricted areas, can be fraught with challenges. Beginners often need a safety crash course before they can confidently pilot these gadgets in the sky. Here are a few tips to help budding drone operators:

• Register your Drone: If your drone weighs more than .55 grams and less than 55 pounds, register it with the FAA’s Unmanned Aircraft Registration system. The registration fee is $5.
• Read the Manual: Familiarize yourself with the drone’s features by thoroughly reading the manual before operating the device.
• Master the Controls: Practice operating the drone in an open and safe space or on flight simulators if your drone comes with one. Remember, practice makes perfect.
• Be Conscious of Restricted Areas: Many national and state parks, seashores, and other sites managed by the National Park Service are off-limits to drone usage. Stay updated with the regulations to avoid getting into trouble.
• Understand Local Drone Laws: Be aware of the drone laws in your state or locality.
• Stay Focused: Pay attention to your drone during flight to avoid accidents. Flying in crowded areas can be particularly challenging due to the potential for distraction.
• Keep Your Drone in Sight: To better anticipate hazards or obstacles, keep your drone within your line of sight.
• Avoid Windy Conditions: Flying on windy days can be challenging, especially for beginners. Wait for calmer weather before you fly.
• Be Prepared for Accidents: Crashes can happen, especially while you’re still learning. Keep spare parts on hand for any necessary repairs.

Drones are undeniably appealing for hobbyists and professionals alike. Cultivating a solid understanding of drone operation and safety can ensure your drone-flying experience is both enjoyable and successful.