Cleared for Take off: 5 Important Things to Remember When Choosing a Location to Fly Your Drone

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Owning a drone is one thing; knowing where to fly it is another. You can’t just go launching your quadcopter anywhere—it will cause you serious problems. There are things to consider besides the fact that you’re looking for a place that will give you a perfect aerial view. Plus, there are FAA rules—regulating how to fly drones that you must operate in line with.

Again, there’s the aspect of safety, not only yours’ but also that of the people in your surroundings. So before your start flying a drone in a given location, ensure you are cleared for takeoff. But what are the things a dronethusiast need to keep in mind when choosing a drone flying location?

1. Check Local rules

Before going airborne, be sure to familiarize with the local regulations for flying drones? Find out if there are some safety issues in the area you may miss on that forbid flying and may land you in legal trouble. A smart idea is to check the state’s website to go through local regulations. Likewise, you can call the local police authorities for more info.

2. Get away from the crowds

For one; drones attract people, and you don’t want to go airborne on a park full of citizens lest you attract too much attention. But the worst that could happen is you losing control of your drone and hitting someone. You’ll have to pay for it.

Always try to fly in areas that are far from the public. And if you have to go airborne in a popular spot, look for a time when the place is less crowded. Also, avoid heavy traffic hours and if you have to, search for a hidden spot with minimal foot traffic.

3. Battery / Fire Safety

If you’re flying in a dry area, it’s advisable to carry with you a small fire extinguisher in your gear bag.

Drones use powerful batteries. But these batteries sometimes swell and ignite, especially if you’re flying a dry, rugged area where you’re likely to slam the quad.

While it is rare to have Lipo batteries explode, you’re better safe than sorry. Carry a fire extinguisher; it may prove handy.

4. Check for power lines

Walk around your flying location to spot power lines or any overhead wires before a takeoff. Watch out for single power lines; they are hard to see from with the eyes or in the video feed. Conducting a check before will help you locate and avoid such obstacles while airborne.

5. Seek permission to fly on Private property

You don’t want to knock your neighbor’s door just because your drone landed or crashed in their backyard. Not everyone will take that lying down and smile about it.

And in the event, you break a window or damage any valuable? Be ready to pay hefty repair bills or get handcuffed. Always be sure to seek permission before flying around on private property.

We are influencers and brand affiliates.  This post contains affiliate links, most which go to Amazon and are Geo-Affiliate links to nearest Amazon store.