More Than Doubled Our Flight Instructor Count

DARTdrones now has more than 40 flight instructors. Since “Shark Tank” filmed, we’ve added several manned aircraft pilots to our drone pilot training team who have impressive resumes, including:

• Karl Schwab, a Marine Corps veteran who is licensed commercially in multi- and single-engine planes.
• Randy Eary, who has been a private pilot since 2002.
• Jack McIntosh, who holds a private pilot certificate with an instrument rating.
• Jerry White, who has flown commercially and as a corporate pilot.

All of these instructors teach drone license courses to prepare students for the FAA Part 107 exam, hands-on drone training, advanced, industry specific drone classes and more.

Drone Pilot Training Now in 28+ Cities

DARTdrones now offers classes in more than 28 cities across the United States. We’ve doubled what we offered since Abby Speicher aired on “Shark Tank”. We now offer commercial drone training courses in the following cities:

15 New Courses and More to Come

When Abby went into the Tank, DARTdrones only offered their in-person flight training course. After filming “Shark Tank”, DARTdrones knew many people would wonder how to become a drone pilot. The company realized there was a need for drone license courses and other types of drone pilot training courses for new and advanced UAV pilots. The company created new curriculum and added a number of classes, including:

• In-Person Part 107 Test Prep: This in-person drone license course teaches students how to get their FAA commercial drone license with one of our expert instructors.
• Online Part 107 Test Prep: A comprehensive online course which teaches students how to get a commercial drone license.
• Starting a Drone Business under Part 107: After creating curriculum about how to become a drone pilot, DARTdrones wanted to teach students how to become a drone entrepreneur as well. This online course will do just that!
• Aerial Photography: An online course which will teach students how to use their drone to capture stunning photography.
• Aerial Mapping and Modeling Workshop: A new two-day intensive workshop teaching Aerial Mapping and Modeling using the DroneDeploy software.
• Aerial Inspections Workshop: A new two-day intensive workshop teaching Aerial Inspections.
• In-Person Aerial Photography & Videography: An intensive one-day course which teaches students how to produce professional and cinematic drone photos and videos.
• DARTdrones Wings Program: A comprehensive program consisting of 3 courses in 1. Students will take a flight assessment, verify their Part 107 Remote Pilot’s License, and complete a series of 14 online micro courses to earn their DARTdrones Wings.
• Search and Rescue, Thermal and Night Operations: A two-day, in-person workshop with our expert public safety instructors which provides hands-on experience in aerial search and rescue missions, thermal imaging, and night operations.
• Night Flight: Three online drone training courses covering night flight operations, night physiology and guidance on obtaining a night operations waiver.
• Real-World Flight Planning and Execution Program: 14 scenario-based e-learning courses which take students through interactive sUAS flight issues and emergency scenarios to prepare for real-world missions.
• Disaster Response: An interactive online course that provides a clear path to understand the challenges of a disaster zone, vital operational factors, the Incident Command structure, equipment considerations, clearance to fly, coordination efforts, ways to help, and more.
• AUVSI Trusted Operator Program Certification Training: DARTdrones became a Level 3 TOP Training Provider, offering TOP Level 1 and Level 2 Certification training. The program is proven to provide drone pilots with a reliable, safe and professional foundation to further distinguish themselves in the market.
• Drones for Beginners: The company knew a lot of ‘Shark Tank’ viewers would be interested in learning more about the drone industry, which drone is right for them, and exactly how to become a drone pilot. This $19.99 course is a fun video-based course narrated by our CEO, Abby Speicher.

Drone Consulting Program

DARTdrones also offers consulting for enterprise and government teams with services including equipment procurement and system design, developing standard operating procedures manuals and UAS integration plans, and submission of airspace authorizations and waivers.

Over 14,000+ Drone Pilots Trained

With so many new cities, instructors, and courses since “Shark Tank” filmed, DARTdrones has reached more students than ever before. We’ve now had more than 14,000 students take our drone training classes from various organizations across the globe.

Public Safety Grant Program

As a way to give back, DARTdrones pledged over $500,000 in free drone training to over 300 police and fire departments around the country. The 2021 Public Safety Drone Training Grant is currently open for applications and offers funding to departments for courses such as Part 107 Test Prep Training, Flight Training, Search and Rescue Drone Training, Accident Investigation and Aerial Disaster Response Training, as well as various consulting and legal documentation writing services.

As you can see, a lot has happened since we aired on ABC’s “Shark Tank”, and our team plans to continue growing and training pilots in countless industries. If you’d like to learn more about our drone pilot training courses or just learn more about the drone industry, sign up for our newsletter, call us at 800-264-3907 or email us at info@dartdrones.com.

The post Since ‘Shark Tank’: DARTdrones Drone Pilot Training School Keeps Growing | Updated 2021 appeared first on DARTdrones.

About DARTdrones Public Safety Grant Program

In February 2018, DARTdrones announced the launch of their first ever Public Safety Grant Program. During this first round, the team pledged $100,000 in drone training grants to public safety organizations as a way to give back and to honor the one-year anniversary of their appearance on ABC’s Shark Tank.

Within the first month of Round One being launched, DARTdrones awarded funding to over 40 public safety departments around the country. In the conclusion of Round One, the drone training company ended up pledging over $300,000 in free drone training to over 80 police and fire departments.

DARTdrones sees a huge value, from both a safety and operational standpoint, in implementing public safety drones. The team also believes every department should have the opportunity to utilize drone technology in its daily operations. With those points taken into consideration, and the desire to help diminish the financial barrier with starting a public safety drone program, DARTdrones increased their funding by 200% within Round One, and decided to then launch a second round of funding in August 2018.

The DARTdrones Public Safety Grant provides full or partial funding to departments hoping to learn to utilize drones. Grant funding is offered for courses such as Part 107 Test Prep Training, Basic Flight Training, Real World Flight Planning & Execution Program and private, on-site public safety drone training.

With over $400,000 in grant funding and 187 public safety departments awarded in Rounds One and Two, the team is thrilled to commit an additional $100,000 for the launch of Round Three, open now through Monday, August 26th, 2019.

How to Apply For a Public Safety Grant

1. Click here to begin your department’s grant application.
2. Once that initial application is submitted, you will receive an email with the complete DARTdrones Public Safety Grant application process.
3. After your application is submitted, the DARTdrones Grant Committee will review and reach out after August 26th.
4. Please note, Round Three of DARTdrones Public Safety Grant closes on Monday, August 26th, 2019.

DARTdrones Public Safety Grant Recipients

Some of the 187 departments awarded grant funding in Rounds One and Two.

• Arab Police Department
• Arlington County Fire Department
• Artesia Police Department
• Atlantic City Police
• Bell County Rescue Squad
• Blue Springs Police Department
• California Department of Fish & Wildlife
• Central Valley HIDTA
• Cheshire County Sheriff’s Office
• Cheswold Volunteer Fire Company
• City of Beacon Police Department
• City of Bryan Fire Department
• City of Manchester Police Department & Clay County School Board
• Colchester Fire Department
• Colorado Parks and Wildlife
• Cherry Creek State Park
• Corona Police Department
• Day County Search and Rescue
• Demarest PD
• Department of Emergency Services Chester County PA
• DuBoistown Fire Department
• Endwell Fire
• Factoryville Fire Company
• Farmington Hills Police Dept
• Flagler Beach Police Department
• Flagstaff P. D.
• Florida Atlantic University
• Gilt Edge Volunteer Fire Department
• Glassboro OEM
• Golden Valley Police Department
• Grand County Sheriff’s Office
• Greensboro Fire Department
• Hamden Police Department
• Hamilton County Emergency
• Harnett County Sheriff’s Office
• Hershey Volunteer Fire Department
• Huntley Police Department
• Jackson County Sheriff Dept
• Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (SWAT)
• Jones County Sheriff’s Office
• Kansas City, Missouri Police department
• Kernersville Police Department
• Keyport Police Department
• Killeen Police Department
• Laguna Beach Police Department
• Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office
• Manchester Emergency Management
• Manitowoc Police Department
• Marshall County Drug Task Force
• Martinsville Fire & EMS
• Midwest City Police Department
• Milford Police Department
• N Okaloosa CERT
• Nashua Police Department, Iowa
• Nashua Police Department, New Hampshire
• Newton County Sheriff’s Office
• Niles Police
• Number One Volunteer Fire Department
• Ocean Shores Police Department
• Orange CT
• Paris Fire Department
• Plainfield Police Dept.
• San Marcos Pass Volunteer Fire Department
• Sanilac County Sheriff’s Office
• Sharon Fire Department
• Sharon Police Department
• Solomons VRSFD
• Spotswood Police Department
• St Michaels Fire Department
• St. John’s Fire District
• State Attorney’s Offcie 4th Judicial Circuit
• Surf City Fire Department
• Town of Greenburgh Police Department
• Vermont State Police
• Vigilant Hose Company No. 1 of Port Vue, PA
• Warrensburg Fire Department
• Washington County Department of Public Safety
• Washington Volunteer Fire Department
• West Valley City Police Department
• Westborough Police Department
• Wicksburg Volunteer Fire Rescue Department Inc.
• Yarmouth Police Department

For questions about DARTdrones drone training courses or the Public Safety Grant Program, please call 800-264-3907 or email info@dartdrones.com.

The post DARTdrones Pledges $100,000 in Grant Funds for Third Round of Public Safety Grant Program appeared first on DARTdrones.

Why should you get TOP certified? It’s important to aim high. Specialized training promotes effective critical thinking and sound habit formation. The ongoing success of commercial manned aviation in the U.S. demonstrates how advanced training helps to ensure high levels of safety and performance. The unmanned aerial community is ripe for both the consolidation and promotion of similar industry vetted training and standards. Quality and integrity speak volumes.

I recently spent a weekend just outside Chicago with a class of TOP Level 2 certification candidates led by a seasoned professional instructor from DARTdrones. Chicago was home before relocating to the Pacific Northwest, and the course was located in the controlled airspace (which everyone had clearance to operate in) where I achieved my private pilot’s license some years back. Never one to just stumble through an endeavor without a clear vision of what it takes to gain mastery, TOP Levels 1 & 2 serve my aspirations in the drone industry well.

To me, the Trusted Operator Program means safety, reliability, quality assurance, and differentiation above the mean. The future of the industry, and my goal, is intelligent, enterprise-scale UAS operations that make aerial platforms readily available to gather and deliver needed information. A professionally-sponsored program like TOP is fundamental to success at that scale; for sustained commercial acceptance as well as legitimacy on a broad societal level. Add to that, the weekend class was downright fun, informative and rewarding. Thanks Colin!

AUVSI’s TOP certification promotes situational awareness, risk-based decision making and comprehensive resource management within the drone community. We all benefit from reinforcing this framework. Clients, bystanders and even potential constituents have noted the professionalism of my enhanced site safety measures, comprehensive pre-flight prep and checklist operating procedures. I’m taken seriously because I take what I do seriously. We all know the true story, so let’s do our part to promote the care and responsibility we deliver. TOP advances our success.

Dave McCabe
BEAV-AIR UAS LLC
503.475.3309
dave.beavair@gmail.com

About Dave McCabe

Following many years as an executive managing high dollar commercial real estate investments and healthcare delivery operations, Dave has settled onto a promising new horizon in drone imaging services. A licensed private airplane and commercial remote sUAS pilot based in Portland, Oregon, he’s demonstrating an aviator’s relentless spirit and buckled-up passion for the open skies through his new business, Beav-Air UAS LLC, to make the motto “Information Elevated” a reality for his growing list of clients. Foremost, Dave enjoys the fast-paced intellectual challenge working and collaborating with so many really motivated, forward-looking minds on the unmanned aerial imaging scene. Doing so outdoors in the incredibly beautiful Pacific Northwest is simply a rewarding bonus that keeps him smiling.

The post DARTdrones Student Review: AUVSI Trusted Operator Program™ Level 1 and 2 Certified Remote Pilot appeared first on DARTdrones.

AUVSI Trusted Operator Program (TOP)

As a TOP Level 3 Training Provider and early-adopter partner in this program, we at DARTdrones have been involved in many important conversations with our clients about how the TOP program might benefit their organization. From these conversations, we have identified six reasons why many enterprise drone program managers are buying into TOP.

1. It’s a Differentiator

With thousands of Certified Part 107 Remote Pilots across the country, many of whom claim to be experts in everything unmanned, it can be very difficult to identify the truly qualified and experienced pilots. A number of our clients utilize contract pilots, yet the managers who hire them are unsure how to accurately vet their qualifications for a job. With a program like TOP, enterprise drone managers can quickly and effectively cut through the sea of Part 107 pilots to identify the best of the best.

2. Provides a True Industry Standard

The Trusted Operator Program is not just one organization, one “industry expert”, or one company claiming to have created the Industry Standard. The extensive TOP development process brought together over 200 industry leaders to create the consensus standards found in the TOP Protocol Certification Manual (PCM). Although many of these organizations and individuals had different approaches and goals, they came together to develop a true industry standard.

All TOP certified organizations go through a rigorous assessment of their internal sUAS programs conducted by a certification body. As a certified TOP Level 3 Training Provider, DARTdrones was evaluated on over 160 requirements within the following categories:

• Management Systems
• Operational Procedures
• Training Program
• Maintenance and Inspection
• Safety Management System

This third-party vetting, and the level of detail it encompasses, ensures that all TOP certified organizations are truly operating at the highest level of safety and compliance.
 

3. Fills in the “Missing Pieces” of Part 107

At conferences, industry events, and in numerous articles, the “missing pieces” of Part 107 are often mentioned as an ongoing issue. So, what exactly are these “missing pieces”? The industry leaders who put together the TOP program spent months working together to answer that question. The Remote Pilot Exam does test some important aviation topics, but most certified drone pilots would agree that many of the practical aspects of flying a drone are overlooked.

In TOP Level 1 training, remote pilots are trained and quizzed on their understanding of these missing pieces. Every TOP Training Provider takes a slightly different approach to covering this content. At DARTdrones, we cover this information in a series of 14 online scenario-based micro courses which we collectively call the Real World Flight Planning and Execution Program. This course covers the practical real world understanding and application of:

• Airspace
• Weather Assessment
• Site Assessment
• Risk Assessment and Management
• Equipment Care and Maintenance
• Battery Care and Safety
• Utilizing Checklists
• Emergency Procedures Response
• Overcoming Disorientation
• Aviation Communications
• Visual Observer and Crew Best Practices
• Operational Safety
• Flight Principles and Performance
• Air Law

4. Provides a Vetted Flight Assessment

Many enterprise drone programs already have an internal training program for their pilots. Clients continually ask if we can help them build a flight assessment to finalize this training. With TOP Level 2 and 3, a very clear flight assessment has already been created that ensures TOP certified drone pilots are safe, competent operators.

During the TOP Practical Flight Assessment process, pilots are first evaluated in a question-answer session on their knowledge of regulations, environmental elements, navigation elements, emergency response, and human factor elements. Remote pilots must then demonstrate to the assessor their ability to safely and effectively execute pre-flight planning, systems checks, a safety briefing, normal flight procedures, manual flight maneuvers, abnormal and emergency procedures, crew resource management, and operational compliance.

The result is a comprehensive assessment of a remote pilot’s practical flight skill and operational practices

5. Functional Area Breakout

During the development of TOP, many people asked how this program could be relevant to sUAS missions across so many different industries. This concern was addressed with the inclusion of Functional Areas. Experts in each area were highly involved in the development of the protocol standards for their respective vertical. Not only has this approach allowed for true experts in each functional area to identify their specific needs, it has also brought some interesting industry specific organizations into the TOP development team.

Currently TOP Level 3 breaks out the following functional areas:

• Agriculture
• Environmental Services
• Infrastructure and Utility Inspections
• Petroleum, Oil and Gas Inspections
• Public Safety Operations
• Training Providers

Additional functional areas will be added to the above list as the TOP program and drone industry as a whole continues to mature.
 

6. Improves Internal Pilot Team Buy In

Many enterprise drone programs are selecting drone pilots from within their current employee base. However, processing these individuals through the required training and certification can at times drag on due to the fact it this is typically a collateral duty for these employees. In some organizations, TOP certification is being used as an incentive to motivate internal drone pilots to prioritize their drone responsibilities.

There are some very interesting conversations taking place behind the scenes regarding TOP program implementation within some of the nation’s largest drone programs. It’s going to take some time, but TOP is well positioned to be adopted as the industry standard.

About DARTdrones and the Trusted Operator Program

As an early adopter of AUVSI’s Trusted Operator Program, DARTdrones offers comprehensive, online and in-person curriculum for TOP Level 1 and TOP Level 2 Remote Pilot Certification training.
 
TOP Level 1

Becoming a Level 1 TOP Operator requires all drone pilots to complete the following:

• 14 Online Micro Courses
• Proof of Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate

Upon completing the above requirements, the newly designated TOP Operator will receive the following:

• A digital copy of the TOP Protocol Certification Manual
• AUVSI TOP Level 1 Certificate
• AUVSI TOP Level 1 Pin
• Listed on TOP Operator Directory as TOP Level 1 Pilot

 
TOP Level 2

To become certified as a Level 2 TOP Operator, all drone pilots must complete the following:

• TOP Level 1 Certification
• 1 Day In-Person Instructor Led Training
• Hands-on Flight Evaluation with DARTdrones Instructor

Upon completing the above requirements, the newly designated TOP Operator will receive the following:

• AUVSI TOP Level 2 Certificate
• AUVSI TOP Level 2 Pin
• Listed on TOP Operator Directory as Level 2 Pilot

 
DARTdrones is the nation’s leader in drone training, program development and consultation, offering online and in-person courses in 40+ cities across the United States. DARTdrones takes pride in their comprehensive curriculum, developed by a former US Navy Helicopter pilot, as well as their 40+ flight instructors who are all manned and unmanned aircraft pilots. Call 800-264-3907 or email the DARTdrones Team at info@dartdrones.com to learn more.

The post 6 Reasons Enterprise Drone Programs are Buying into the AUVSI Trusted Operator Program™ (TOP) appeared first on DARTdrones.

In 2019, AOPA will be co-hosting DARTdrones’ Aerial Mapping and Modeling Workshop and Aerial Roof Inspections Workshop at their headquarters in Frederick, MD. Both advanced drone training workshops will be a combination of classroom training in AOPA’s You Can Fly Academy and outdoor, hands-on flight experience. Workshops will both be taught by a DARTdrones Flight Instructor.

DARTdrones Chief Pilot and Operations Consultant, Colin Romberger, stated, “As an AOPA member and lifelong aviation enthusiast, I’m very excited to be a part of this year’s co-hosted workshops at the You Can Fly Academy in Frederick, MD! Our sUAS Mapping and Inspections Workshops provide 2-days of true, real world experience in sUAS data capture applications that will give participants the skills necessary to leverage the true power of unmanned aircraft systems for professional applications.”

“We are excited to have DARTdrones bring their advanced drone courses to the AOPA membership”, said AOPA Sr. Director of UAS Programs, Kat Swain. “They have a great track record as a drone education provider and have received great feedback from their students”.

Aerial Mapping and Modeling Workshop

When: May 10^th @ 8:30am – 5:00pm & May 11^th @ 8:30am – 5:00pm

Where: AOPA’s You Can Fly Academy – 411 Aviation Way, Frederick, MD 21701

Prerequisites: Since this is an advanced drone training workshop, DARTdrones requires all Aerial Mapping and Modeling students to have their FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot’s License as well as 5+ hours of flight time.

Course Topics:

Pricing: $1,490/student (AOPA Members receive 25% off)

Registration: Interested students can register online here, or call the DARTdrones team at 800-264-3907.

AOPA’s Annual Fly-In Events

The co-hosted Aerial Mapping and Modeling Workshop will coincide with AOPA’s 2019 Frederick Fly-In. Every year, AOPA hosts Fly-In events to provide pilots and aviation enthusiasts an opportunity to join educational workshops and seminars, connect with other pilots, explore an aviation atmosphere and more.

This year’s Frederick Fly-In will take place at the Frederick Municipal Airport (KFDK). Event registration is open to the public and includes general admission, aircraft parking and savings on meals. Register online here.

Aerial Roof Inspections Workshop

When: August 17^th @ 8:30am – 5:00pm & August 18^th @ 8:30am – 5:00pm

Where: AOPA’s You Can Fly Academy – 411 Aviation Way, Frederick, MD 21701

Prerequisites: Since this is an advanced drone training workshop, DARTdrones requires all Aerial Roof Inspections students to have their FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot’s License as well as 5+ hours of flight time.

Course Topics:

Pricing: $1,490/student (AOPA Members receive 25% off)

Registration: Interested students can register online here, or call the DARTdrones team at 800-264-3907.

For any questions on DARTdrones and AOPA’s co-hosted drone training workshops, please call 800-264-3907 or email info@dartdrones.com.

The post DARTdrones and AOPA Launch Two Co-Hosted Drone Training Workshops to Take Place at AOPA Headquarters appeared first on DARTdrones.

The national leader in drone training, program development and consultation has announced the launch of their new In-Person Aerial Photography and Videography Course for UAS pilots. The nationwide drone school has designed this in-person course to offer UAS pilots the opportunity to add more value to any commercial photography and videography business by producing high-quality shots. The one-day course will be taught by DARTdrones Flight Instructor, Jerry White, an award winning UAS pilot with over 20 years of professional video and photography experience. The course will allow students to have a solid foundation in truly mastering photography and videography as well as new, fresh ideas in using a drone to capture memorable footage that will produce stand out work.

DARTdrones In-Person Aerial Photography and Videography Course

The In-Person Aerial Photography and Videography Course consists of six classroom style lessons as well as an outdoor flight demo led by the instructor (if weather permits). The course does not teach students how to fly a drone and therefore will not cover how to take off, how to land, etc. If students are interested in learning how to fly a drone, check out DARTdrones Hands-On Flight Training. Throughout the one-day course, students will develop knowledge in the following areas:

Lesson 1: Intro to Aerial Videography

• Lesson Topics: Why use Drones?, Common Uses, Flight Process, FAA Considerations, Local Considerations, Crew Roles, Pilot Skills, Drones 101 Review

Lesson 2: Aircraft and Camera

• Lesson Topics: Choosing Your Platform, Common DJI Platforms, Why DJI?, Inspire 1 & 2: Specs, Inspire 1 & 2: Pros & Cons, Phantom 4 Pro: Specs, Phantom 4 Pro: Pros & Cons, Mavic Pro: Specs, Mavic Pro: Pros & Cons, Cages and Propeller Guards, Mavic Air: Specs, Mavic Air: Pros and Cons, Scenarios, Camera Options, Choosing a Camera, Zenmuse Options, Micro Four Thirds, Zenmuse X5 Lens Options, 8MM Lens, 15MM Lens, 45MM Lens, Choosing Lens, Gimbal Balancing, Neutral Density (ND) Filters

Lesson 3: Aerial Photography Settings

• Lesson Topics: Photo Settings, Types of Photos, Image Size (Aspect Ratio), Image Format, White Balance, Kelvin Scale, Style, Color, Understanding a Histogram, Adjusting Shutter Speed, EV (Exposure Value), Variable Aperture (IRIS), F-Stop, Depth of Field

Lesson 4: Aerial Videography Settings

• Lesson Topics: Video Settings, Choosing Video Size, Frame Rates, Video Format, Video Standards, Color Settings, Normal VS D-Log, D-Log Post-Processing, Controller Settings, Gimbal Tuning, Gimbal Pitch Speed, Gimbal Pitch Smoothness, Gimbal Roll, Aircraft Response Settings, Aircraft Exp Settings, Sensitivity Settings, Gain Settings

Lesson 5: Standard Aerial Shots

• Lesson Topics: Shot List, Rise and Reveal Flight Path, Descending Approach Flight Path, Rising Retreat Flight Path, Rising Retreat Example, Tracking Flight Path, Orbit/Half Orbit, Orbit Flight Path, Panning Flight Path, Tilt, Fly By, Sliding, Fly Over, Bird’s Eye, Fly Through, JIB, Stationary, Common Mistakes, Scenarios & Examples, DJI Intelligent Flight Mode List

Lesson 6: Preparation and Post-Production

• Lesson Topics: Preflight Planning, Airspace, Controlled Airspace In Airmap, Preflight Planning Items, sUAS Weather Limits, Other Online Sources, Preflight Planning Items, Site Evaluation, Area Layout, Preflight Planning Items, Submitting a Waiver, State/Local Regulations, Onsite Assessment, Weather, Hazards, Takeoff/Landing Points

In addition to the above curriculum, all registered students will receive instant access to DARTdrones Online Aerial Photography Course.

Pricing and Availability

DARTdrones is kicking off the In-Person Aerial Photography and Videography Course with three dates and locations. Students can register online or over the phone for the price of $375 USD.

• March 23, 2019 in Houston, TX (register here)
• April 27, 2019 in San Francisco Bay, CA (register here)
• May 25, 2019 in Orlando, FL (register here)

For additional information, please contact the DARTdrones team at 800-264-3907 or email info@dartdrones.com.

The post DARTdrones Introduces In-Person Aerial Photography and Videography Course for UAS Pilots appeared first on DARTdrones.

Christina Martinez, CFII, Commercial Pilot and DARTdrones Flight Instructor, spoke with us about her experience flying drones for the Super Bowl LII in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Christina’s Experience Flying Drones for The Super Bowl LII

How did you get involved in flying drones for the Super Bowl?

We have always worked hard to network with our local pilot community as well as larger organizations.  Doing so has enabled us to keep up with technology and application innovations and support requests for drone services that require more pilots than our company can staff.  One of the requests we fulfilled for the super bowl was for media operations – this particular opportunity we responded to a request on a nation-wide Facebook page. When operating in locations unfamiliar, it’s often advantageous to work with local pilots who have first hand knowledge of state and local regulations, operating conditions, and know the in’s and out’s of getting around.  

Can you describe the live streaming you did?

Our mission was to stream events from drone and ground teams throughout the Minneapolis and St. Paul areas.  The events included things like pick-up ice hockey games, horse drawn carriages, sights around the Cities, and parties that the agency wanted streamed.  We used Osmos from our Inspire’s for the ground work. The drone teams were two person teams which included a pilot and VO (the VO was also a pilot in all cases).  Using the same equipment for both ground and flight teams enabled the technology and media crew to streamline operations.

We put the entire crew together in under a week and worked from two mission hubs – one for the tech team that was led by the agency and one for the drone and ground teams and their equipment.  Our project manager worked with the agency to create schedules for each of the teams that showed where each team had to be and what time they needed to be live so that at least one, sometimes two crews (for backup) would be available to livestream at any time.  It took an incredible amount of coordination, especially when considering travel time, weather, and flight restrictions.

When we put the teams together we hired pilots based on both their skills and their ability to quickly make safe, smart decisions – including calling fly/no-fly in high-pressure situations.  When a team was unable to fly, we filled some of those slots by taking the props off our drones and using them as a ground camera to film hockey games, bonfires and skiing events. We communicated via text and also an app so that when one crew landed for battery swaps or relocation, another would immediately take off.

How were you able to keep up with live streaming for 16 hours a day?

The live streaming was made difficult for a number of reasons.  For starters, operating in extreme temperatures (cold in this case) meant that our battery life was shorter, snow/visibility could ground a flight crew, and our personnel had to worry about frostbite!  Even someone holding an Osmo on the ground for 12 hours a day had difficulties in the cold weather! The next issue was keeping our batteries charged. The pilots had between 6 and 10 batteries each and would continuously charge from their cars when able on location.  The Osmo holders had it a little more difficult. They couldn’t carry charging packs, so they often ended up warming up and recharging batteries in tunnels (Minneapolis has above ground tunnels between buildings for the winters!), coffee shops, or anywhere they could find an outlet!  

We both live streamed and recorded video during the entire event.  Managing memory cards meant that every team carried multiple memory cards.  Every night after midnight each team loaded their data onto a hardrive that was then used for filler the following day.

Finally, one of our unforeseen issues was actually streaming video live.  We all quickly ran out of data on our cell phone plans and we had to start buying hot spots to stream the data.  Some locations we couldn’t get good enough cell service or internet due to the number of people in the area.

Was it difficult flying drones in Minnesota during the cold February temperatures?

We learned a LOT about flying in frigid temperatures!  Our No-Fly temperature was -6F and a few times we had to wait for it to warm up to -6 in the morning!  There are a few ways to manage the cold weather. The first is to dress your body for the weather. Multiple layers, long down jackets, insulated snow pants and boots.  Because you’re not physically moving very much, your feet and hands are the first thing that gets cold. Flip top mittens that have cut-off fingers are great – you can stuff a hand warmer in the mitten part and only expose the fingers needed for flight.  Flight mitts are also a great option, just make sure your joystick stays free and clear of any fabric!

We were required to use visual observers and only used VOs that could also fly as pilots.  That way we were able to hand the remote back and forth to take turns keeping our hands in our pockets with our hand warmers!

We know that our batteries, iPads and the plastic on the drones are susceptible to extreme temperatures. We strapped hot pads to our iPads, put hot pads in our remote mitts (a definite must to maintain dexterity while flying) and kept our drone and batteries in heated cases.  We would go through packs and packs of hot pads each day keeping our equipment as warm as possible!

Did you fly under Part 107?

We performed all our videography/live streaming under Part 107 and held local permits, and FAA airspace authorizations and night waivers.

Can you explain Crew Resource Management for this event?

It is incredibly important to have an Air Boss or project manager who understands the 107 requirements, local rules and regulations, local contacts (FAA, permitting authorities and emergency personnel), and is also incredibly organized.  One night my team was flying downtown as snow started to come in from the west. The team out west was watching the closest METAR in their area and as soon as it went below 3SM, they landed. We knew our team was next. The PM was able to coordinate with ground crews to get someone else live, and HQ filled in with previously recorded footage.  She had the west crew relocate to the North where the vis was above 3 miles while we filmed from the ground, and then had them pop back up. She had to know the city and where interesting events might be taking place, weather, 107 regulations, AND all the temporary restrictions that were in place during the event.

What types of drones did you fly for the Super Bowl LII?

We flew multiple drones based on the location, operation, and team experience.  We had a few Inspire 1s, P4Ps, and Mavics.

Were there any challenges or drawbacks while flying for the Super Bowl?

The biggest challenge was the weather.  Since we were able to work with a Minnesota based crew, we were all prepared with the appropriate gear.  We learned a lot about technology restraints, streaming live. Putting the entire operation together in a week meant that we didn’t have time to do all the planning we wanted.  Another challenge was working with the City of Minneapolis as they navigated the NFL and FAA rules and regulations. This was the first time the city created a permitting process for flying drones during large events.  As the industry grows and drones become the norm, the processes will become streamlined!

What were the main benefits drones brought to the Super Bowl?

Drones brought a unique view of the Super Bowl, especially one where the weather was so cold that people weren’t able to spend a lot of time outdoors.  We were able to showcase the “Bold North” as Minneapolis called it by filming ice houses on lakes south of the city, ice rinks, ice sculpture contests, cross country ski races and fat tire races through the woods.  

Do you think we will see drone pilot’s flying missions for the Super Bowl LIII?

There will definitely be drone pilots flying missions this year.  Drones are now expected in security, news coverage, and advertising.  Perhaps we’ll even see another drone light show in a future Super Bowl!  As technology matures and the professional pilot community grows, drones will continue to be an important part of our event experience.

The post Flying Drones for the Super Bowl: A Commercial Drone Pilot’s Experience Flying For Super Bowl LII appeared first on DARTdrones.

DARTdrones is pleased to announce FLIR Systems, Inc. as co-host for our drone inspections training workshop in May 2019.  FLIR Systems is the world’s largest producer of thermal cameras and the market leader in drone thermal technology. Their cameras and solutions are ideal for validating roof condition as well as identifying flaws and areas in need of repair.

“FLIR is a strong supporter of drone pilot education. By better understanding thermal technology and how to use FLIR cameras for roof inspections it leads to better deliverables and a stronger network of drone service providers.” said Randall Warnas, Global sUAS Segment Leader for FLIR.

DARTdrones CEO and Co-founder, Abby Speicher Carroll, stated, “DARTdrones is honored to have FLIR co-host the Aerial Roof Inspections course. Learning about the capabilities of utilizing a thermal camera for aerial roof inspections is a key part of the course. Having FLIR drive that point home is going to be a huge asset for our students.”

Aerial Roof Inspections Workshop Co-Hosted by FLIR

DARTdrones Aerial Roof Inspections Workshop is a two-day intensive drone inspections training which will teach students how to safely and effectively maneuver their aircraft in order to gather and analyze the data necessary for a successful inspection. All students must be Part 107 certified drone pilots as well as have 5+ hours of flight time.

When: May 3rd, 2019 @ 8:30AM – 5:00PM and May 4th, 2019 @ 8:30AM – 5:00PM (following AUVSI Xponential Conference on April 30 – May 2 in Chicago, IL)

Where: Northern Illinois University – Naperville, IL

Kick Off Event: All registered students will be welcomed by FLIR’s Global sUAS Segment Leader, Randall Warnas. Randall will kick off the drone inspections training workshop and demonstrate different FLIR equipment relevant to drone inspections.

Course Topics: The Aerial Roof Inspections Workshop is a 2-day intensive drone training course that requires all students to have their FAA Part 107 Certificate as well as 5+ hours of flight time. The workshop schedule is as follows:

Pricing: $1,490/student

How to Register: Interested students can register here.

For any questions on DARTdrones Aerial Roof Inspections Workshop co-hosted by FLIR, please call 800-264-3907 or email info@dartdrones.com.

The post DARTdrones Drone Inspections Training Workshop Following AUVSI Xponential 2019 Co-Hosted by FLIR appeared first on DARTdrones.

InspectionWorld 2019 will be held at the Town and Country Resort in San Diego, CA on January 20 – 23, 2019. The 2019 event will mark the second consecutive year for DARTdrones CEO & Co-founder, Abby Speicher Carroll, to speak on how to implement drones in a home inspections business.

“I am very excited to speak again at the InspectionWorld 2019 Conference,” said Abby Speicher Carroll, CEO & Co-founder, DARTdrones. “Last year, many of the participants were just getting started implementing drones for their home inspections businesses. I can’t wait to learn more about how the past year has progressed for these new drone pilots.”

How to Implement Drones and AUVSI Panel

Abby Speicher Carroll’s presentation, “25 Steps For Implementing Drones Into Your Home Inspections Business”, will cover topics such as the overall commercial drone industry, types of aerial inspections, as well as 25 in-depth steps of how to implement drones and where to get started. Carroll will provide insight on developing a budget, legal concerns, how to choose the right sUAS, obtaining program funding and more.

Following this 1-hour presentation, Carroll will take part on a panel discussion with AUVSI’s Chief Pilot, Tracy Lamb, as well as members of the AUVSI San Diego Chapter.

Part 107 Test Prep at InspectionWorld 2019

InspectionWorld is offering DARTdrones in-person Part 107 Test Prep as a pre-conference course in 2019. The prep course teaches students everything they need to know to pass their FAA Remote Pilot Exam. The DARTdrones instructor will cover 13 main sections including: regulations, airspace, flight restrictions, chart study, airport operations, radio communications, aviation weather, maintenance and pre-flight procedures, crew resource management and aeronautical decision making, sUAS loading and performance, hazards to flight and emergency procedures, aviation physiology, and taking the exam. Students will receive 8 hours of in-person test prep, 300 FAA Part 107 practice questions, 50-page printed study guide, full access to our Chief Pilot for future questions, and 6-months access to our complete online Part 107 Test Prep course.

When: Saturday, January 19th, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm

CE Credits: 8 ASHI CEs

Cost: $430/student

Registration: Interested students can register here.

Aerial Roof Inspections Drone Training Workshop Preceding InspectionWorld 2019

Prior to the start of InspectionWorld, DARTdrones will be hosting an Aerial Roof Inspections Workshop near the conference location.

When: January 19th and 20th, 2019

Where: San Diego, CA

Prerequisites: This drone training workshop requires all students to have their FAA Part 107 Certificate as well as 5+ hours of flight time.

Course Topics: The Aerial Roof Inspections Workshop is a 2-day intensive course which covers the following:

Registration: Interested students can register here.

The post DARTdrones CEO & Co-founder to Speak on How to Implement Drones at InspectionWorld 2019 appeared first on DARTdrones.

DroneBase often works with clients to supply aerial imagery for roof inspections. Thanks to drones, this sector is seeing lower operational costs, increased safety and better data. With a heightened demand for drone pilots who are skilled in aerial inspections, DroneBase is co-hosting DARTdrones Aerial Roof Inspections Workshop.

“As drones become more integrated into businesses’ operational workflows, we believe that there will be more opportunities for drone pilots and it will continue to be a sought-after skilled workforce,” said Nick Osgood, Head of Operations, DroneBase. “We already provide commercial missions for the largest global Pilot Network, and we hope to turn your hobby into a career.”

This UAV training workshop is a two-day intensive course, which prepares students for a career as an aerial inspector. Students will learn new skills such as quality image capturing, managing drone emergencies, camera optimization, pre-flight and on-site planning, crew coordination, thermal imaging, and more.

Aerial Roof Inspections Workshop Co-Hosted by DroneBase

When: May 18, 2019 @ 8:30AM – 5:00PM and May 19, 2019 @ 8:30AM – 5:00PM

Where: Santa Clarita, CA

Prerequisites: This UAV training workshop requires all students to have their FAA Part 107 Certificate as well as 5+ hours of flight time.

Course Topics: The Aerial Roof Inspections Workshop is a 2-day intensive UAV training course which covers the following:

Pricing: $1,490/student

How to Register: Interested students can register here.

Welcome Reception with the DroneBase Team

All registrants of the UAV training workshop are invited to a welcome reception with the DroneBase Team on the evening prior to the training. The reception will include snacks and refreshments for all. The DroneBase Team will provide information on their company, how to work with DroneBase to secure drone jobs, insight into the industry and more.

When: Friday, May 17, 2019 @ 5:00pm PT

Where: DroneBase Headquarters (2800 Olympic Blvd, 2nd Floor, Santa Monica, CA 90404)

All students can RSVP to the welcome reception by emailing marketing@dartdrones.com.

For any questions on DARTdrones Aerial Roof Inspections Workshop Co-Hosted by DroneBase, please call 800-264-3907.

The post DARTdrones and DroneBase Partner to Offer Advanced UAV Training Workshop in 2019 appeared first on DARTdrones.