Articles
What YOU Need to Know About Drone Waivers! Part 1
By Sidra Safri
It's been a year since the introduction of the Section 107 drone regulations and many photographers are still extremely excited! As more and more photographers look to incorporate drones into their businesses, the FAA is attempting to stay on top of the influx of waivers that are coming in.
At first introduction, the FAA was able to process waivers within 90 days. Now, that waiting period has gone up to 120 days! To ensure you waiver is approved in a timely manner, be careful to apply for the correct waiver and be as detailed as possible. Over the next eight-to-nine weeks, PPA will break down these waivers, providing you with examples as to when you can apply for them and what sort of information to provide to ensure your wavier is processed as quickly and smoothly as possible.
The first waiver we will address is Section 107.25- Operation from a moving vehicle, boat, or aircraft. In accordance with the Section 107 regulations, a drone operator may not operate a drone while being transported via any method. However, there is waiver for this! One may apply for this waiver when wanting to get a shot of an aerial view for commercial or real estate purposes, inspecting power lines or pipelines, even simply shooting a video for a client. Since there is a lot going on logistically, it is understandable that the FAA wants to approve these sorts of uses.
When applying for a waiver to operate a drone via a moving method of transportation, include as much information as possible. Include why you are requesting this waver, the time of day, a backup plan (just in case something goes wrong). Also, it helps to have another set of eyes on the drone. Include a plan to have someone watching the drone in action to add another layer of safety. The more detail you have, the more likely the FAA will approve your request, and the less back-and-forth there is trying to get additional information. At the same time, the FAA has also requested you be as detailed as possible, but to not ask for more then you need. This will cause delays in your request, and possibly even lead to a denial. To request a drone waiver or see additional waiver options visit the FAA website.
Stay tuned for the next part in our series on drone waivers, or read them below!
For more info on all things drones, of course, head to PPA.com/Drones.