What Santa didn’t tell you about your new drone
New federal government rules mean drone pilots need more education in order to fly safely. As technology improves and drones get smaller and less expensive, there’s a greater chance of problems related to drone operation.
Even though the San Luis Valley is a designated drone test area, flying in wilderness areas, national parks and near airports is restricted. There are also age restrictions, height restrictions, night flight restrictions and privacy considerations. What about using a drone for hunting wild game? There are also different rules depending on the weight of the drone and whether or not the operator is involved in a money-making operation. Violating some of these rules can result in a fine of up to $5,000 and possible jail time.
On Wednesday, December 28, at 6:30 p.m., Trinidad State’s Dr. Evert Brown will represent the Federal Aviation Administration and present the rules for safely
flying your new drone. Dr. Brown serves on the FAA Safety Team or FAASTeam. Members
of the FAASTeam work to lower the Nation’s aviation accident rate by conveying safety
principles and practices through training, outreach, and education.
Trinidad State offers several certificates in drone operations (Unmanned Aviation
Systems) including hands-on piloting of college-owned drones. For more information
go to www.trinidadstate.edu/uas.
This free, hour-long information session will happen at the Alamosa Campus of Trinidad State College, 1011 Main Street Room 121.