Recent content by btrussell

It would be helpful to note that the operating rules for sUAS operations have many parallels to fixed wing manned operations. Being in “communications” with ATC in certain airspace is one of them. Having a clearance in class B airspace is another. It is also handy to recall the golden rule—...

I can usually see my aircraft at about 1400-1600 feet.

For the record, the issue is with proximity to he Shelby county airport, which is in class g airspace with class e overriding it at 700’agl. You may wish to contact the airport directly in addition to the recommendation above. They may be able to assist you with unlocking based on your location...

Check out FAA.gov/dronebase. Your answer is there. Every 2 years you have to complete the FAA training course (part 61 certificates pilots) or pass the knowledge test again (for those not holding a part 61 issued pilot certificate. )

One other possibility.... churches have been approached by cell service provider to host cell sites within their tall structures. This provides a hidden antenna platform for the providers and a revenue stream for the churches. Is it possible that this aircraft fell victim to EMI?

A bit of history on this issue may be helpful. The weather minimums for sUAS are taken directly from the basic VFR weather requirements. Because UAS under part 107 has the 400 ft altitude restriction they deleted the remaining requirement for being 1000 above any clouds or other obscuration...

All airport operations are described in the aeronautical information manual or AIM. The document is available on the FAA website as a pdf. Nearly all of your questions of this nature can be answered from the AIM.

I believe the alarm you are hearing is annunciating the need for controls calibration. Press the controller icon, press start, follow the directions. Then press finish and the alarm goes away.

That is correct. P mode to operate s mode to cancel. Tailwinds all!

The correct answer will depend on the agency desire to operate with or without a certificate of authorization from the FAA. If one is obtained or already possessed then pilots may be trained and “certified” under the terms of the COA. If no COA is obtained, then certification under part 107 is...

Having worked on a UAS NAS integration effort for the FAA, long before the current program, I can assure you that we are a long way from BVLOS ops on a wide scale. To achieve this will require redundant and diverse control links to the aircraft as well as real time NAS compatible position data...

Congrats on holding your certification for nearly 2 years. Does your certificate have an expiration date on it? Most FAA pilot certificates do not expire, but most have a recurrent training requirement window. If you do not hold another pilot certificate issued by the FAA and meet the...