Hi guys, new to the forum, posting that is. Been flying rc since 1979. Currently an AMA member, and have been on and off since then.
The way i see it, if you get prior permission, permits, or what ever is required, plus prove financial responsiblity and accept that responsiblity in case something goes wrong you can fly where authorized. Public events... anywhere. But, asked those who do, what type of liability insurance is required and how much. Guarantee your homeowners or auto won't cover it.
Fact is, just be safe and Responsible.
Couldn't agree with you more.
While some here opine that I only fly in my backyard, a few feet above the ground, an no further than my outstretched arm (or however he described it), I don't. I actually fly BLOS at times, and I have breached the 400 ft (gasp) ceiling more than once. I've flown over strangers, both on foot an in cars. I've circled an Osprey in the top of a pine, and flew with some Turkey Vultures once (OMG I was harassing wildlife!) Shhh, I even flown in some state parks where I legally could not.
But I have chosen NOT to fly in many places where I really really wanted to fly. I'm not a hot shot pilot, I know my limitations, and I know the differences and limitations between each brand of drone I own. I know if I fly on the far side of a structure, I will lose radio contact, I know how far out and back I can go on 60% of a battery, etc., etc. That is what I think "Flying Safe" is - knowing you and your drone's limitations, as well as your own skill level.
There are times when we should be allowed to fly over crowds, but should we open that up to every drone owner, regardless of their skill?
I have no problem with experienced and qualified pilots flying over a stadium or parade, but strongly feel that John Jones who just got his drone last week for his birthday, should not be allowed to fly over people or near tall buildings. I guess that makes me the "Drone Police."
We keep blaming the media for sensationalizing all the drone stories, but each time some of us try to talk about the drone pilots who are feeding the media, and their unsafe and "stupid" flying, we are labeled as "drone police" or they are defended with their "right to be stupid." Bottom line, we can't change the media and what they feed on and in turn feed to us, but we can change our own behavior.
Flame me.