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Can you share key learnings from Drone U Experience Training? Today's podcasts is all about the recently concluded Drone U's Experience training and we share all the highlights, learnings and our experience from the training. We start off by sharing top insights from the training focusing first on the location, the team and the environment and discussing how the natural set up of the location helped students hone their skills in flight control. We also discuss key highlights from student experience on the training and how Scott, one of our students at the training, was able to constantly improve his learning navigating through all the challenges day in and out and how constant presence of instructors assisted him in clearing and clarifying his questions. Next we discuss important topics that came up during the Experience training including DJI's product line up and how newer drones are actually doing less to improve flight performance but priced much higher than their predecessors while delivering lower va

What are NFTs? Are they worth exploring to a drone pilot? Today's question is from Tom who is looking to learn all about the latest sensation in the crypto world, Non Fungible Tokens or commonly known as NFTs. Tom would like to know about them and how one can get started with creating and selling NFTs We start today's episode by jumping straight into what NFTs are all about and what it means to drone pilots and other users alike. We discuss common pitfalls of the technology while also going over marketplaces to create and sell NFTs along with discussion on the inherent value of NFTs and if they mean anything to the end user. We also discuss new market offerings from marketplaces and companies such as Coinbase and talk about future of NFTs. Tune in to learn more about NFTs and what value they hold for you. Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad! Get your questions answered: https:

With multiple software packages available in the drone industry, how do pilots decide on using one? Today's question is from Felipe on how pilots can choose a particular software, considering there are many options available for a single application in the drone industry. Pilots today are spoilt for choices on using drone software for a particular application leading to complex purchasing decisions and the follow up learning curve with these softwares for related business deliveries. We address this very important question for pilots today, going over the many softwares that are available and how you can choose one over the other. We start off today's episode introducing Drone U's mindmap for navigating the drone industry landscape giving pilots a clear career path to pursue as they progress through their development. The mindmap has been shared on the Drone U community and we are sharing the map for our podcast viewers. We then briefly discuss how the combination of flight skills, software and having a co

What do we know of the Inspire 3 launch? What spec and features can we expect? Today's question is from Marshall who has 2 questions for us - He would like to know what we know about the Inspire 3 and why we are moving our HQ to Colorado. We start of today's episode by answering Marshall's question on our move, from New Mexico to Colorado, and highlight our rationale to do so. We discuss what we intend to have and how these will help future drone pilots taking Drone U courses. We also highlight how the drone industry is poised for growth and how we wanted to be at the centre of it. Tune in to hear more details on our move, the search for a suitable home and all that Drone U has planned for the future. We then delve into Inspire 3 launch rumours and how these have peaked in recent times with DJI launching a slew of drones in the recent past and the need for pushing new features and technology advancement in the market. We talk of expected features such as specifications, camera features, new technology and a

Washington State announces legislation on certified pilots having to register their drone with the state? Is it legal? How should pilots react? Today's question is from Laska, about Washinton State's new legislation requiring certified part 107 drone pilots to register drones with the state. She would like to know how to deal with this legislation and what pilots should make of it. Today's podcast directly addresses the frequent state vs federal legislation situation that pilots have faced ever so often. Is Washington state's legislation on drone registration relevant for drone pilots considering all of drone regulation is covered federally through the FAA? We address common questions around this topic - should pilots expect other states to follow Washington state in this new legislation? Should state attempt to generate revenue from such legislation ? possible reaction from drone advocacy groups, and how we as drone pilots can stay up-to-date on drone laws using Drone U's drone advocacy kit. Stay updated

Where can I find Inspire 1 batteries and how can I assess their performance? Today's question is from Jonathan, who has recently purchased a used Inspire 1 along with accessories and batteries but is finding the batteries being unable to hold their charge during flights and would like to know where one can find Inspire 1 batteries and how one can assess them. We first answer Jonathan's question if the Inspire 1 batteries he possesses have any life left in them. We then talk where he can find Inspire 1 batteries and if 9 marketplaces like Amazon and Ebay are worth utilizing for purchasing an Inspire 1 battery. We delve into 2 important aspects of drone batteries that pilots need to know about and share the hack of rental services that allow pilots to rent batteries prior to purchasing them thereby allowing pilots to validate and check a battery before spending $$ on them. Watch this short and quick podcast covering important aspects of drone batteries that will help you avoid the anxiety of purchasing batte

What are the best practices to put together Isotopes' Cinewhoop shots? How can pilots plan such shots? Today's question is from Tom, who wants to know how pilots can put together Cinewhoop shots and what goes into planning and execution of such shots. We are fortunate to have performed a Cinewhoop production video for a local baseball club Isoptoes and happy to answer Tom's question today straight from our hands-on experience of performing a shoot. We start our response by highlighting GoPro's latest camera with superior stabilization than its predecessor models and how it has been designed for Cinewhoop videos. We then delve directly into Tom's question by first talking about what cinewhoop entails and the legalities around such shots. We discuss how pilots need to plan flight plans and equipment for a perfect shot and this is critical in the overall success for a production shot. We then delve into specifics of how Paul landed a Cinewhoop project for Isoptopes, a local baseball club, and how he went abou

New Updates to drone manufacturer list, Iris automation new ground base system, BlackSwift technologies ground water density measurement system, will we have F1 races in the sky? In our latest episode of the Drone Life News show, we cover all the latest news in the drone industry and bring you the hottest updates from regulations to new drone tech to air mobility. In our first news segment of the drone life news, we discuss all the latest news in the approved manufacturer list starting with Florida's approved manufacturer list and the confusion the list has caused along with discussing the results of an agency survey on manufacturers they use and the problems that the agencies would face with the new list. In our next segment we discuss all about Iris Automation announcement of its ground-based detect and avoid (DAA) surveillance solution, Casia G, that will be made commercially available. We discuss how the Casia G utilizing the same AI and computer vision technology as other Iris Automation’s onboard solu

Updates from Amsterdam Drone Week conference, Texas regulations struck down, Wing and Flighttrack trials In our latest episode of the Drone Life News show, we cover all the latest news in the drone industry and bring you the hottest updates from regulations to drone deliveries to commercial drone application news. In our first news segment of the drone life news, we discuss all the latest news and takeaways from the Drone Week conference in Amsterdam. Miriam just returned from the conference and has all the first hand information for our viewers including European drone regulation updates, Urban Air mobility and Europe's take on all the drone developments. In our next segment we go over Texas drone regulations being struck down by federal courts and its implications. A federal judge had recently struck down a Texas drone law, one of the most restrictive in the country, for violating the First Amendment’s protections of freedom of speech and the press. We discuss the specifics of the case and the application

What are the best practices when using DroneDeploy during mapping missions? Are there any preferred workflows to using DroneDeploy? Today's question is from Justin, who wants to know if DroneDeploy is the software of choice for use in mapping missions and what are some of the best practices around the use of DroneDeploy. We begin today's episode by listing the best resources for pilots undertaking mapping missions and going over the best workflows for an efficient and effective mapping mission. We then discuss how customer requirements can be a game changer to mapping projects deliveries and why pilots need to often consider this aspect when planning flight missions. We study DroneDeploy and its benefits and compare it with another leading mapping software solution, the Optelos, and delve into which software is better for today's mapping demands. A true assessment of a software is not complete by reviewing its application in mapping projects and we precisely trim down the comparisons between commercial and

Are there any preferred drones for measuring the height and width of buildings? What factors should pilots keep in mind when purchasing a drone? Today's question is from Jannik, who is performing photogrammetry missions and for his requirements needs to measure the height and width of buildings, however he would like to know what drone is best suited for his requirement, a drone that can effortlessly provide accurate measurements We begin our response to Jannik by going over the many requirements of performing a mapping mission and how pilots need to consider them for ensuring quality deliverables. We then delve into accuracy of mapping missions and what factors influence accuracy and how pilots need to keep them in mind while purchasing a drone. We also delve into the technical aspects of performing linear and vertical measurements using a drone and how pilots can effectively use their drone to perform such measurements. Lastly we discuss about the most important driving factor of mapping missions - the cl

Can pilots fly drones that have not been flown in a while? What pre-flight checks should they conduct to ensure safe operations? Today's question is from Adam, who would like to know what pre-flight checks are required for his drone that's been on the shelf for a while. Our show today is different from usual shows where we answer questions from pilots who possibly use their drone quite actively. However today, we focus on the drones that haven't been flown in a while and the critical things that pilot need to keep in mind when using them. We start off with a discussion about the most critical part of the drone that might have been impacted from long disuse and that's the batteries. We elaborate on battery checks that pilots must undertake to check worthiness. We then begin discussions on 2 aspects of a drone - the hardware and the software side of operations and pre-flight checks. We discuss firmware checks, how some of the older drones have unique differences in terms of their firmware and how the recent

How can pilots make the best of Drone U's in-person classes? What should pilots be aware of prior to joining a class? Today's question is from Ike, who would like to know about Drone U's in-person classes and what it takes to make the best of these classes and the intended audience for the classes. A fair question, considering these are the most common questions we receive about our classes. We discuss the expectations in-person class attendees have and how they can make the best use of our classes. We believe having a strong understanding of the expectations helps us provide value for their time and investment in our classes. We then discuss if Drone U's mapping classes are meant for beginners and things for pilots to practice prior to attending the mapping classes. We then provide a breakdown of courses that pilots can go through which are readily available through membership and flight practice exercises to master prior to attending the mapping classes. Lastly, we discuss and share the experience of pi

Does the Mavic 2 Enterprise Dual Advanced offer more value than the Mavic 3? Is it a good buy? Today's show is about the battle of the Mavics - the Mavic 2 Enterprise Dual Advanced vs the Mavic 3. Our question for today is from James, who would like to know if the Mavic 2 EA is a better option and if DJI is shifting its product strategy to enterprise drones. We start off the episode discussing the recent evolution of Mavic drones and discuss the features of the new M30 drone from DJI. we discuss the many differing features in these 3 drones from construction of drones to lenses and resolutions. We then discuss DJI's product line up and innovation strategy and if DJI is shifting slowly towards the enterprise edition route and what it means for drone pilots. We then look into product features and pricing factors that pilots consider when purchasing a drone and when comparing drones on the market. Dont miss this show ! Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this

DJI Launches new M3 drone with docking station, review of ARC recommendations for BVLOS flights In our latest episode of the Drone Life News show, we cover 2 new updates in the Drone industry - DJI's launch of the M30 Enterprise drone featuring a docking station and a review of ARC's recommendation for BVLOS flights and what it means to the industry. In our first news segment of the drone life news, we discuss DJI's latest drone which is their next generation of enterprise solutions.  DJI introduced a suite of new enterprise products: the Matrice 30 Enterprise, along with the DJI Dock for remote operations, a new RC controller, and the new Zenmuse H20N sensor, giving “starlight vision” to the DJI M300 RTK drone. DJI calls the new products “an all-in-one solution for professional drone operators” combining a sophisticated, cutting edge aircraft with a “fully remote fleet management system and an autonomous docking and recharging station and we discuss all the waves the drones can make in the drone world. In

As pilots keep up with increasing mapping demand should they choose Propellor or Pix4D and what are the implications of choosing either? With mapping continuing to be a critical drone application in the drone world, what software should drone pilots to ensure accuracy and high precision deliverables? In today's show we discuss and compare in detail, 2 key software in the drone mapping world - the Propellor and Pix4D, and how choosing either can impact precision, accuracy, budget, ease of convenience and a whole lot more. Our question for today, is from Bob, who would like to specifically know if he should opt for Pix4D or Propellor for his photogrammetry requirements. We start off the episode discussing how zoom affects marking your available flight data and driving accuracy in mapping. We then detail the Pix4D mapper's performance on generating topography maps. We also discuss limitations of using cloud software in generating aerial maps and the ways in which pilots can mitigate them. Before delving into

BVLOS ARC releases recommendations for BVLOS flights, FAA opens applications for LAANC and WING drone delivery comes to Dallas Fort worth In our latest episode of Drone Life News show, we cover all the latest updates in the drone industry - from updates on BVLOS to drone deliveries. In our first news segment of the drone life news, we discuss the news of the BVLOS ARC recommendations for BVLOS flights. The recommendations come in the light of how the FAA needs to structure its BVLOS regulations with the ARC even specifically recommending FAA to develop medical qualifications for UAS pilots and other crew members conducting drone flights. Miriam and Paul discuss the implications of these recommendations and how they can structure the regulations in the drone world. In our next story, we talk about FAA's notice on opening new LAANC application for providers. The FAA has announced that an application period for new LAANC providers will be opened on May 2, 2022. Our regular listeners know how the development of

BVLOS updates, FAA administrator resigns and what the future holds for Drone Industry In our latest episode of Drone Life News show, we cover all the latest updates in the drone industry - from updates on BVLOS waivers to Steve Dickson's resignation as FAA administrator and the future of the drone industry in light of these latest changes. In our first news segment of the drone life news, we discuss all the latest from the world of BVLOS waivers and talk about the companies that have received BVLOS waivers. We talk how the waivers are helping multiple industries and domains such as emergency care, search and rescue missions. Learn how BVLOS can drive innovation in automated flights and what potential this holds for the drone industry. In our next story, we talk about Steve Dickson stepping down as FAA administrator and what potentially led to him stepping down. We discuss if candidates with heavy manned flight experience make a good choice as an Administrator who could drive growth of Drone industry. Next

What drone should pilots choose if they intend on taking close-up aerial photos and videos? With multiple drones available in the market today, what qualifies to be the preferred drone for pilots intending to take close up aerial images and videos? Today's question is from Earl who would like to know the preferred drone for close up aerial shots and videos. We answer Earl's questions by first addressing the noise generated from a drone when performing close to subject missions for aerial photo shots and the absolute need for pilots to plan such missions considering all the subjects in the vicinity of the shot. Next we discuss some options available to drone pilots taking close-up aerial shots and how these options can aid a drone pilot to take better aerial images. We then discuss some of the drone options available for pilots including the Mavic 3, Inspire 2 with X7, Mavic 2 Enterprise Dual Advanced. Paul also discusses some options available on the Mavic 3 relevant for close aerial shoots (more can be fou

Are major TV and Film events now being captured by DSPs or do Media houses have their own drone crew? Today's show is about Drone Service Providers (DSP) and if they continue to be in demand to contract and fly for major events and film crews or if the market has shifted towards media houses staffing their own crew for such events. Our question for today is from Ken in New Jersey, who would like to know if DSPs get the higher end tv and film drone jobs and to understand the opportunities available for DSPs. A very relevant question in today's context as events - major and local, are increasingly utilizing aerial shoots to enhance the experience of viewers. Considering the recent events such as Superbowl where a fleet of drones were used to provide aerial imagery and live entertainment. Paul and Rob start responding to today's question by talking about companies covering major events such as Super Bowl/ NASCAR races that continue to be DSP but how these DSPs have evolved over time. Specifically we address h