Dealing with Manned Pilots Ignoring Aviation Regulations

Today’s show is about dealing with manned pilots who are disobeying laws. What actions should a drone pilot resort to in this scenario?

Our caller, Paul, is a drone service provider in Arkansas. One of Paul’s pilots witnessed a manned aircraft flying below 400 feet. As you might know, manned aircraft are required to maintain a minimum altitude of 500 feet as per the law. What should Paul do?

This is certainly an unusual situation that we have not discussed before at Ask Drone U. First of all, do regulations prohibit manned pilots from flying at low altitudes? Can manned aircraft get permission to fly at altitudes lower than 500 feet? Next, we discuss whether a Part 107 pilot will get into trouble for ignoring Part 107 rules in such emergencies. We also point out how altitude limits on drones will do little to avert a drone crash in such instances. Thanks for the great question, Paul. Fly Safe!

Recently crashed your drone? Unable to find trained technicians who can repair your drone quickly and at a reasonable rate? Don’t fret. The cool folks at Fortress UAV can help you get your drone back up in the air in as little as 7 days! Use Promo Code “DroneU” to get 25% off. Drone U Members get an extra 5% off on total repair costs. Check them out now!

Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad!

Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real 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.

Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community.

Looking for simple, fast, and transparent coverage that gives you peace of mind? Our friends at Skywatch are offering affordable on-demand drone insurance that rewards YOU for flying safely. Check them out NOW! Both hourly and monthly options available.

Follow Us