Today's question is about battery maintenance. What are some best practices for ensuring long drone battery life? Can you damage your drone batteries if you are not flying for a long duration?

Our caller cannot fly for two months at a stretch due to harsh weather conditions. He is wondering if this period of inactivity affects drone battery life. How often do you need to fly to ensure that your drone battery is not damaged? Tune in to this short but informative episode to find out. Fly safe!

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

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If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you're there, leave us a 5-star review, if you're inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

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Timestamps

Today's question is about drone batteries

Can you fly your drone in cold weather?

Can you ruin your drone batteries if you don't fly for a long duration?

How often should you fly to ensure that your drone batteries are not damaged?

Today, we talk about using drones for building inspections. How can you make an accurate building model using a drone? Which software can you use for making great client deliverables? Are there any disadvantages to using cloud based software for processing drone footage?

Because, folks in the construction industry are used to working with models, they have extremely specific requirements. And, your data acquisition technique is ultimately dependent on client's requirements. What are some tips and tricks to accurately acquire data? Can drones be used by insurance companies to accurately assess damages?

We also talk about client deliverables. Learn how Pix4D model, an online portal compares to DroneDeploy. You can always join our in-person mapping class where these concepts are covered in great detail. Stay tuned and fly safe!

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

Get your questions answered: http://askdroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you're there, leave us a 5-star review, if you're inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

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Registration Link for our FREE webinar on 3/27 - https://events.genndi.com/register/169105139238437930/f1b0fbf32a

Timestamps

Paul shares details about the forthcoming Drone U Fly-in

Today's question is about building inspections and client deliverables

Discussing the best way for making client deliverables

How does Pix4D model compare to DroneDeploy?

What are the limitations of using cloud processing software for processing drone footage?

Can you get more accurate data if you are using manual tie points? Can you apply manual tie points using cloud processing software?

What is the best way to do building inspections? Is creating mapping models the only alternative?

Can you use drones to process insurance claims?

How can participating in Drone U's in-person mapping class help you?

Discussing how your acquisition strategy depends on your application

Learn how we will be incorporating real life scenarios in the upcoming Drone U Fly-in

How can you make volumetric measurements using Pix4D for settling insurance claims?

Where can Drone U members access the 2018 FAA Symposium talks?

Today's question is about drone insurance. Can you get insurance if you are flying someone else's drone? Which insurance providers can you consider in this scenario?

Our caller, Ignacio wishes to fly his friend's drone. How can he receive proper coverage? In event of a crash, can Ignacio claim damages using his friend's policy? Or, does he need to buy a separate drone insurance policy?

We also talk about different insurance providers. Is on-demand insurance by Verifly a good option? Which are some good alternatives in this situation? Should you consider purchasing insurance from an agent? Tune in to find out. Thanks to the caller for the question. Fly safe!

Also, the folks over at Energen are offering a special discount on their amazing portable chargers for all Drone U members.  Use one the following promo codes at checkout, depending on which battery you buy, to get a great deal on a killer battery:

Energen A40 Model:  DRONEUA40

Energen M10 Model:  DRONEU M10

Energen P40 Mode:  DRONEU P40

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

Get your questions answered: http://askdroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you're there, leave us a 5-star review, if you're inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

Follow us:

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Get your copy of "Livin’ the Drone Life" - http://amzn.to/2nalUDH

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Registration Link for our FREE webinar on 3/27 - https://events.genndi.com/register/169105139238437930/f1b0fbf32a

Timestamps

Today's question is about claiming insurance if you are flying someone else's drone

Do you need to have a FAA registration number in order to claim insurance?

Should you consider getting your drone insurance from a good agent?

Ways to claim insurance when flying someone else's drone

Should you consider getting insurance from Verifly?

Today's question is about getting your COA or COW. If you have prior permission from Air Traffic Control, do you still need to get your COA or COW? What does the FAA say about this issue?

Our caller, Igancio is wondering about the authority exerted by Air Traffic Control (ATC). Paul reads out excerpts from the Drone Pilot Field Kit which helps clear any confusion relating to this issue. Tune in to this short but extremely informative episode. We thank our caller for the question. Fly safe!

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

Get your questions answered: http://askdroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you're there, leave us a 5-star review, if you're inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

Follow us:

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Get your copy of "Livin’ the Drone Life" - http://amzn.to/2nalUDH

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Sign up for our FREE webinar on 3/26 - http://bit.ly/2u2XHEE

Timestamps

Today's question is about getting your COA or COW

Do you need a COA or COW in spite of having prior ATC permission?

Paul reads out what FAA says about this issue by referencing the Drone Pilot Field Kit

Today's question is about traffic accident reconstruction. Which is the best drone for traffic accident reconstruction? Should you use Ground Control Points (GCP's)?

Our caller is planning on purchasing a good entry level drone. Is the DJI Matrice a good drone for mapping? Or, should he stick to the Phantom 4 Pro or Inspire 2? We also discuss the importance of maintaining the highest accuracy levels. Do you need to follow a specific process in order to get this high level of accuracy?

We also talk about Ground Control Points (GCP's). Which are the most suitable RTK-GPS systems for placing your Ground Control Points (GCP's)? We compare systems by Trimble and Emlid. Also, learn how Drone U can help you get accurate survey grade data. Thanks to Andy from Singapore for the question. Fly safe!

Also, the folks over at Energen are offering a special discount on their amazing portable chargers for all Drone U members.  Use one the following promo codes at checkout, depending on which battery you buy, to get a great deal on a killer battery:

Energen A40 Model:  DRONEUA40

Energen M10 Model:  DRONEU M10

Energen P40 Mode:  DRONEU P40

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

Get your questions answered: http://askdroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you're there, leave us a 5-star review, if you're inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

Follow us:

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Get your copy of "Livin’ the Drone Life" - http://amzn.to/2nalUDH

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Sign up for our FREE webinar on 3/26 - http://bit.ly/2u2XHEE

Timestamps

Paul shares information about the forthcoming Drone U webinar

Today's question is about using drones in traffic accident reconstruction

Why is it important to maintain the highest accuracy levels while doing traffic accident reconstruction?

Is the DJI Matrice suited for mapping jobs?

Is the Inspire 2 and X7 combo a good option for mapping jobs?

Is the Phantom 4 Pro the best drone for mapping?

Do you need RTK-GPS in order to get accurate data?

Can you get good data using the Trimble RTK-GPS?

Is the Emlid Reach RS a good option for placing your GCP's?

Today, we talk about FAA’s LAANC system. When is Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) system coming to you? How does LAANC work?

Our caller has applied for airspace authorizations. But like a lot of folks, his authorizations are in a limbo. He wishes to know the status of the LAANC system.

Is the LAANC system rolling out anytime soon? Will LAANC roll out in different phases? Can ATC authorize your flight ? Tune in to learn all there is to know about LAANC.  Do not forget to check out the attached links for related information on this topic. Thanks to Robert for the question. Fly safe!

Don’t forget to pick up a charger from Colorado Drone Chargers.  Use the promo code DRONEU85 to get yourself a killer deal. Those guys make high-quality quadchargers to help you maximize your flight time!

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

Get your questions answered: http://askdroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you're there, leave us a 5-star review, if you're inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

Follow us:

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Get your copy of "Livin’ the Drone Life" - http://amzn.to/2nalUDH

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Sign up for our FREE webinar on 3/26 - http://bit.ly/2u2XHEE

FAA Notice - https://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Notice/N_JO_7110.746_ATC_Service.pdf

LAANC information - https://www.faa.gov/uas/programs_partnerships/uas_data_exchange/?cid=TW581

LAANC rollout schedule - https://www.thedroneu.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/LAANC-Rollout-Schedule.pdf

Timestamps

Today's question is about the Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) system

What is LAANC?

When is the LAANC system rolling out?

Does ATC have authority to grant you authorization?

How many airports are opening up after the LAANC roll-out? How do you know if your airport will be opening up?

In today's episode, we discuss the best apps that will help you determine where you can fly. Which are some reliable applications for checking airspace restrictions? How do you check for NOTAM's and TFR's? Which are some important weather parameters that you should check?

 Is Skyward.io a better resource for checking NOTAM's than Airmap? Which is a good resource for checking TFR's? You also need to know how to read airspace maps. How can Drone U help you better understand airspace?

Be sure you check weather or you will crash your bird. Tune in to find out the importance of monitoring KP-index and dew point spread. We thank Houston for the question. Fly safe!

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

Get your questions answered: http://askdroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you're there, leave us a 5-star review, if you're inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

Follow us:

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Get your copy of "Livin’ the Drone Life" - http://amzn.to/2nalUDH

Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide - http://amzn.to/2omQatT

App for checking general airspace - https://skyward.io/

App for checking airspace maps - https://skyvector.com/

Website for checking NOTAM's and TFR's - http://tfr.faa.gov/tfr2/list.html

Timestamps

Today's question is about the information that you need to check before you fly your drone

What are the advantages of using Skyward.io? How does Skyward compare to Airmap?

Discussing the importance of correctly reading sectional maps

How can you check for TFR's?

Why should you refer Skyvector before setting flight?

How can Drone U help you get better at reading sectional maps?

Which app can you use to check weather?

Learn why the dew point spread is really important

What is KP-index? Why should you monitor this parameter?

Discussing the importance of record keeping

Today, we review the DJI Mavic Air. What are the pros and cons of this new DJI drone? Should you buy the Mavic Air? Or, should you rather wait for Mavic Pro 2?

Because this drone is targeting beginners, good build quality is important. Does the Mavic Air score well on this front? This new DJI product is compact and easy to travel with. But, can you generate ample speed? Is the transmission range good enough?

We discuss if serious pilots should consider purchasing this new drone. How does this drone compare to the Mavic Pro and Phantom 4 Pro? Can you capture buttery smooth footage using this drone? Is Atti mode available on the Mavic Air?  Can you shoot at 60 fps? Tune in and hear Rob and Paul thoroughly review this new DJI offering. We thank Kevin from Minnesota for the question. Fly safe!

Don’t forget to pick up a charger from Colorado Drone Chargers.  Use the promo code DRONEU85 to get yourself a killer deal. Those guys make high-quality quadchargers to help you maximize your flight time!

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

Get your questions answered: http://askdroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you're there, leave us a 5-star review, if you're inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

Follow us:

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Get your copy of "Livin’ the Drone Life" - http://amzn.to/2nalUDH

Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide - http://amzn.to/2omQatT

Timestamps

 

We talk about the huge untapped potential in the drone business

Paul shares information about our new Drone U course, "Editing with Final Cut Pro"

Today's question is about the latest DJI offering, Mavic Air

Is the Mavic Air a good drone for beginners?

Is the Mavic Air a good replacement for the Mavic Pro? Is it is a good drone for professional pilots?

Discussing the various Pros of the Mavic Pro

How does the Mavic Pro compare to Mavic Air as far as maneuverability is concerned?

What is the capacity of the Internal SSD card in the Mavic Air?

Discussing Mavic Air's controller quality

Is the Mavic Air's camera good enough? Can you shoot in 4K footage and capture intricate details?

Learn about the issue faced while transferring MP4 files

Is it necessary to use USB-C cables for data delivery?

Can you fly in Atti mode on the Mavic Air?

Discussing the Mavic Air's gimbal quality

Which filters should you use with the Mavic Air?

How does Mavic Air's image quality compare to that of Mavic Pro?

Does the Mavic Air offer good transmission range?

Is it worth buying the Mavic Air?

Today, we talk about BVLOS waivers. How can BVLOS waivers benefit the drone industry? Will BVLOS waivers encourage technologies like LiDAR?

It is possible to scan large areas with great speed using LiDAR. Because it is mandatory to maintain visual line of sight, using LiDAR is an expensive and inefficient proposition. How will opening up of Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) resolve this issue? We also discuss how giant corporations like FLIR and BNSF managed to obtain BVLOS waivers. Are these case studies relevant to the rest of the industry?

We also discuss how FAA is impeding commerce by not granting BVLOS waivers. Is FAA's stance a violation of the Sherman Antitrust Act? How can simpler rules benefit solo drone operators? Check out Paul's article where he has discussed these issues at great length. Stay tuned and fly safe!

Get your questions answered: http://askdroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you're there, leave us a 5-star review, if you're inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

Follow us:

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Get your copy of "Livin’ the Drone Life" - http://amzn.to/2nalUDH

Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide - http://amzn.to/2omQatT

Learn about our In-Person Mapping Course in Houston - http://bit.ly/HoustonMapping

Timestamps

Paul states today's agenda

How does LiDAR compare to photogrammetry?

What is a drawback of using LiDAR for creating models?

Can you map large tracts of land using LiDAR?

How does the the line of sight issue impede the use of LiDAR?

Discussing how BVLOS is impeding commerce

How did FLIR and BNSF manage to get BVLOS waivers?

Is it practical to daisy chain multiple Visual Observers (VO's) while mapping a large tract of land?

We talk about FLIR and BNSF getting BVLOS waivers; learn why these examples are not representative of the larger drone industry

Is there a specific system for granting BVLOS and other complex waivers?

How many BVLOS waivers have been given out by FAA?

Discussing the need to open up BVLOS in order to encourage small businesses

Is FAA violating the Sherman Act by not granting BVLOS waivers?

Can FAA's reluctance to grant a BVLOS waiver result in a small business folding up?

Today's episode is about 2018 FAA UAS Symposium. Drone U Chief Pilot Paul Aitken headed off to Baltimore to attend this conference. Paul talks about the various issues that were discussed at the Symposium. Section 336, Remote ID's, BVLOS waivers, Univeral Traffic Management (UTM) and Complex Waivers are some of the important topics that we touch upon in today's episode.

In Episode 747, we discussed how enforcement actions by the FAA against illegal drone operators are almost non existent. Is the FAA looking for ways to conduct enforcement actions? Will the FAA consider changing Section 336 to make enforcement actions easier against hobbyists?

We also talk about Remote ID's. Because you can know who, want and where something is flying, this technology might pave the way for granting complex waivers such as BVLOS and flying at night. Can we expect Remote ID's to become a law anytime soon? Universal Traffic Management (UTM) is another topic that we delve into. Will the introduction of UTM lead to safer skies? Another glaring fact was the lack of representation for the small business owner at the UAS Symposium. Check out Paul's article where he goes into all these issues in great detail. Stay tuned and fly safe!

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

Get your questions answered: http://askdroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you're there, leave us a 5-star review, if you're inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

Follow us:

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Get your copy of "Livin’ the Drone Life" - http://amzn.to/2nalUDH

Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide - http://amzn.to/2omQatT

Learn about our In-Person Mapping Course in Houston - http://bit.ly/HoustonMapping

Timestamps

Today Paul will be sharing his takeaways from the 2018 FAA UAS Symposium

Will the FAA come up with stricter enforcement's?

Is the Section 336 resulting in lax compliance? Will FAA change Section 336?

Will the introduction of Remote ID's benefit the drone industry?

How many complex waivers have been given out by the FAA?

Can the introduction of Remote ID's result in more complex waivers being given out?

Will the introduction of UTM (Universal Traffic Management) result in safer skies?

How have large commercial entities like CNN and BNSF managed to get complex waivers?

Is your DJI drone equipped with Remote ID?

Which are some of the tracking systems via which you can track Remote ID's?

Is it right on FAA's part to get feedback from giant corporations?

Discussing the need for a small business panel at the next FAA UAS Symposium