FAA Drone Pilot Busts: How They’re Catching You! 🚨
Senior Associate Copy Editor
FAA drone busts are happening! Learn how they catch illegal pilots & fly safely. Avoid costly fines! Click to learn more.
FAA Drone Pilot Busts: How They’re Catching You! 🚨
As a drone pilot and instructor, I see a lot of folks getting excited about the amazing possibilities of drones – and rightfully so! These little machines open up a whole new world of photography, videography, and even commercial applications. But with great power comes great responsibility, and unfortunately, some pilots are learning that the hard way. These YouTube videos we’ll be diving into cover real-life examples of how the FAA is cracking down on illegal drone operations, from near misses with Coast Guard helicopters to flying above the Blue Angels. Knowing how the FAA catches rule-breakers isn’t about fear-mongering, it’s about empowering you to fly safely and legally. Let’s get informed and stay out of trouble!
Key Takeaways: What You Need to Know
Remote ID is Key: The FAA is serious about Remote ID. Enforcement is happening, and they’re working with local law enforcement to identify and penalize pilots who aren’t complying. (Source: "Remote ID is BACK! FAA Explains How Enforcement Works!")
Witnesses Matter: People notice drones, especially when they’re flying recklessly. Reports from the public, including law enforcement and other pilots, are a common way the FAA catches illegal activity. (Source: "Video that led to a Chat with the FAA 😬" and "How the FAA is Catching Drone Pilots")
Social Media is a Double-Edged Sword: Posting that awesome video of you buzzing the Blue Angels might seem cool, but it’s also a direct line to the FAA. They are watching. (Source: “Drone News: Drone Flies Above Blue Angels, FAA FRIA Map, and a Burglary Suspect Caught by a Drone”)
Legal Research is Your Friend: A recent study analyzed 70 FAA enforcement cases and revealed patterns in how they find pilots, the types of violations, and the penalties. Understanding these patterns is crucial for staying safe. (Source: "How the FAA is Catching Drone Pilots")
Don’t Mess with Manned Aircraft: Flying too close to other aircraft, especially those involved in sensitive operations like Coast Guard rescues, is a serious offense with serious consequences. (Source: "HOW did they CATCH him? U.S. Drone Pilot Faces Federal Prison!")
The Future of Drone Enforcement: Tech and Transparency
With the rise of Remote ID and increasing public awareness, it’s clear the FAA is stepping up its game. Expect to see more sophisticated tracking methods and closer collaboration with local authorities. As technology improves, it will become increasingly difficult to fly under the radar (pun intended!). This isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Increased transparency can help build public trust in drone operations and create a safer airspace for everyone.
Ready to Fly Smart?
We’ve covered a lot of ground here. Now it’s time to see these concepts in action. Scroll down to watch the video highlights and learn from the mistakes of others. Remember, responsible drone operation benefits us all. Fly safe, fly smart, and enjoy the skies!
Scroll down to explore the videos
Video that led to a Chat with the FAA 😬. #aviation #dronephotography #dronevideo #drone #pilotJoe Costanza8,605,079 views | 197,219 | September 4 2023 11:19:26 (10,456 comments)[ Read more … ]
HOW did they CATCH him? U.S. Drone Pilot Faces Federal Prison!Geeksvana143,650 views | 3,466 | July 27 2023 06:49:44 (554 comments)[ Read more … ]
Hey Everyone! Californian authorities have confirmed that a man has pleaded guilty to a number of federal criminal charges for unsafely operating a drone on several occasions, including flying close to a United States Coast Guard helicopter. Join Sean LIVE to discuss the story and take a look at how the pilot came to authorities’ attention!
_________________________________________________________
⏩ Subscribe to Geeksvana for more content like this! Click here:
https://www.youtube.com/Geeksvana
________________________________________________
📱 Follow Geeksvana on social media:
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/geeksvana
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geeksvana
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/geeksvana
________________________________________________
📄 ABOUT GEEKSVANA:
Geeksvana is a YouTube channel focused on drones, or as you might call them UAS, (Uncrewed Aerial Systems). We cover all types of drones from hobbyist to commercial, with a focus on drone rules and future flight. Primarily a news channel looking to bring our audience the latest news, leaks and information on the drone world – we also provide how to guides and reviews on products. Geeksvana is an independent source of news and guidance.
Sean Hickey, founder of Geeksvana and main channel presenter is a UK registered journalist who seeks to provide accurate information on what is an often misquoted and misrepresented industry and hobby. Sean currently holds certificates from the UK Civil Aviation Authority, including both the A2 Certificate of Competency (A2 CofC) and the General Visual Line of Sight Certificate (GVC). Flying all sizes of multirotor aircraft from the small DJI Mini 2 to larger aircraft including the DJI Inspire series for both hobby flights and commercial work.
________________________________________________
♣️ BECOME A MEMBER!
You can become a channel member and enjoy a range of benefits including custom emojis in live chat and comments. You can also join regular video meetups exclusively available to members. Find out how you can show your direct support of the Geeksvana channel from just 0.99p/c per month! Click here:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAc1LjZTCMOsPtBLIzWTpMQ/join
________________________________________________
👖 GEEKSVANA MERCH!!
Check out our range of merch available via the merch shelf below every video or click here:
https://geeksvana.myspreadshop.co.uk/
Got merch? Send us a picture of you wearing your Geeksvana merch and we will share it out on our social media and give you and your channel a shout out!! Email a link to your post or the pic to email@geeksvana.com.
________________________________________________
📹 GEEKSVANA STUDIOS
We work with clients to produce a range of high-quality video content for their own social media accounts. From training videos and internal support content to YouTube content and live streaming events, Geeksvana Studios can provide a cost-effective solution. With studio space available we also have a team of male and female presenters available if required. Find out more here: https://www.geeksvanastudios.com.
________________________________________________
🛩️ DRONE SERVICES
Geeksvana Studios can also offer you a range of drone services. From data capture to videography or event coverage, we have a range of aircraft and A2 CofC and GVC qualified operators to complete the task. For more information, visit: https://www.geeksvanastudios.com.
________________________________________________
📰 GOT A STORY?
Have a news story you would like to send us? Something you want to discuss? Email sean@geeksvana.com
________________________________________________
How the FAA is Catching Drone PilotsGeeksvana346,374 views | 5,273 | December 8 2021 16:30:15 (919 comments)[ Read more … ]
Hey everyone! Today, we are looking at a recent work of research from a specialist drone lawyer based in the US. They looked at 70 cases where the FAA prosecuted a drone pilot to draw essential data such as how the FAA found out about the illegal flights, what the pilot was doing when they were caught and how much the fine was.
Read more about the article here: https://jrupprechtlaw.com/faa-enforcement-actions-drones/
—-
Watch our UK Drone Rules playlist here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hYLUvFnttXA&list=PLVV70eK4gSvc62x50DHyBhBOVndX3PJHF
Thank you to our channel sponsors:
Drone Masterclass – find out more about their A2 CofC and GVC courses:
https://www.dronemasterclass.co.uk
Moonrock Insurance have launched their insurance product aimed specifically at hobby drone operators in the UK. Go get a quote now at:
https://hobby.moonrockinsurance.com
You can follow Geeksvana on the following social media as well:
If you have any questions or just want to reach out and say hey! My name is Sean, come and talk to me! sean@geeksvana.com
#FAA #DroneRules #HowTheyCatchYou
Drone News: Drone Flies Above Blue Angels, FAA FRIA Map, and a Burglary Suspect Caught by a DronePilot Institute20,713 views | 946 | July 19 2024 12:00:07 (42 comments)[ Read more … ]
Welcome to your weekly UAS news update we have 3 stories for you; Drone pilot flies above Blue Angels, FAA FRIA Map, and a burglary suspect caught in the act by a police drone.
00:00 Introduction
00:15 Drone Flies Over Blue Angels
00:52 FAA FRIA Map
01:33 Burglar Caught by Drone
Join our community site:
community.pilotinstitute.com
Check out our gear list: https://www.amazon.com/shop/pilotinstitute
Our Other Channels
– PIXL Drone Show: drone-related podcast.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbeSmbjvE0etKry8Nk2n0CQ
– Pilot Institute Airplane: our airplane channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIgBjGoM-yn_3bH8Qr9xkXA
Our courses
– Part 107 Made Easy: the most comprehensive ground school online. https://bit.ly/2AkRWq0
– Drone Business Made Easy: start your drone business with a solid foundation. https://bit.ly/3dVT55T
– Drone Flying 101: the perfect course for beginners. https://bit.ly/2XUy3Pc
– Drone Maneuvers Mastery: become a better pilot with these 50 maneuvers designed to improve your flying skills. https://bit.ly/3hkWkG3
– Cinematic FPV Drone From Scratch: build your own cinematic machine with this course. https://bit.ly/37oOfeG
Get Pilot Institute Gear: https://merch.pilotinstitute.com
First up is your “Don’t be that guy” segment…
A video was posted this week of a drone pilot flying over the Blue Angels near Pensacola Beach, FL.
The drone appeared to be in the flight path of the jets, though slightly higher.
The footage has since been deleted off of social media.
Please do not be that guy and do not interfere with other air traffic.
We’ll keep you updated as we see how this story progresses.
Next up, the FAA finally released a FRIA map!
This new interactive map functions similarly to the UAS Facilities map, but displays FRIAs instead of airspace!
The map includes information about each FRIA including the site name, Affiliated CBO, approval & expiration date, and address.
This is a great site along with FRIAmap.com for recreational flyers to find FRIAs!
Last up, a burglary suspect was taken into custody after a drone observed them breaking into multiple vehicles.
A DFR drone returning from a mission was used to survey a parking lot at a busy area when the operator noted a man acting suspiciously.
After watching the man for a short time, the police operator observed the man use a screw driver to break into a vehicle, where he spent several minutes before breaking into another vehicle.
Police units responded and were directed to the vehicle the man was in, where he was arrested.
This is an interesting, secondary use of a DFR drone.
Have a great week, and we’ll see you on Monday for the Live!
We’ll be in booths 209/210, and 2141
Meet the team, get swag, see the airplane, and try out our new VR systems for airplane training!
Remote ID is BACK! FAA Explains How Enforcement Works! US Drone RulesGeeksvana15,926 views | 517 | March 16 2024 13:25:13 (156 comments)[ Read more … ]
Hey everyone! With the key date approaching of March 16, 2024, the FAA has confirmed it wil be ending the discretionary stage of Remote ID enforcement. In this video, Sean sits down with Kevin Morris of the FAA to discuss how they will look to enforce it and how local law enforcement will handle things on the ground. Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
⏩ Subscribe to Geeksvana for more content like this! Click here:
https://www.youtube.com/Geeksvana
________________________________________________
📱 Follow Geeksvana on social media:
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/geeksvana
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geeksvana
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/geeksvana
________________________________________________
📄 ABOUT GEEKSVANA:
Geeksvana is a YouTube channel focused on drones, or as you might call them UAS, (Uncrewed Aerial Systems). We cover all types of drones from hobbyist to commercial, with a focus on drone rules and future flight. Primarily a news channel looking to bring our audience the latest news, leaks and information on the drone world – we also provide how to guides and reviews on products. Geeksvana is an independent source of news and guidance.
Sean Hickey, founder of Geeksvana and main channel presenter is a UK registered journalist who seeks to provide accurate information on what is an often misquoted and misrepresented industry and hobby. Sean currently holds certificates from the UK Civil Aviation Authority, including both the A2 Certificate of Competency (A2 CofC) and the General Visual Line of Sight Certificate (GVC). Flying all sizes of multirotor aircraft from the small DJI Mini 2 to larger aircraft including the DJI Inspire series for both hobby flights and commercial work.
_______________________________________________
♣️ BECOME A MEMBER!
You can become a channel member and enjoy a range of benefits including custom emojis in live chat and comments. You can also join regular video meetups exclusively available to members. Find out how you can show your direct support of the Geeksvana channel from just 0.99p/c per month! Click here:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAc1LjZTCMOsPtBLIzWTpMQ/join
________________________________________________
📹 GEEKSVANA STUDIOS
We work with clients to produce a range of high-quality video content for their own social media accounts. From training videos and internal support content to YouTube content and live streaming events, Geeksvana Studios can provide a cost-effective solution. With studio space available we also have a team of male and female presenters available if required. Find out more here:
https://www.geeksvana.com.
________________________________________________
🛩️ DRONE SERVICES
Geeksvana Studios can also offer you a range of drone services. From data capture to videography or event coverage, we have a range of aircraft and A2 CofC and GVC qualified operators to complete the task. For more information, visit: https://www.geeksvana.com.
________________________________________________
📰 GOT A STORY?
Have a news story you would like to send us? Something you want to discuss? Email sean@geeksvana.com
________________________________________________
What does this mean for Recreational Flyers? – FAA Community Based OrganizationsPilot Institute120,220 views | 2,839 | October 26 2022 17:49:33 (791 comments)[ Read more … ]
The FAA just released AC 91-57C which hints at guidelines for community-based organizations. How will this affect the rules for recreational flyers going forward? How will this affect you? How will the FAA change its rules in the future?
Make sure to support CBOs, as they are an asset to the flight community:
Flite Test Community Association (FTCA): https://ftca.flitetest.com/
FPV Freedom Coalition: https://fpvfc.org/
Check out our gear list: https://www.amazon.com/shop/pilotinstitute
Our Other Channels
– PIXL Drone Show: drone-related podcast, posts every Tuesday morning. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbeSmbjvE0etKry8Nk2n0CQ
– Pilot Institute Airplane: our airplane channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIgBjGoM-yn_3bH8Qr9xkXA
Our courses
– Part 107 Made Easy: the most comprehensive ground school online. https://bit.ly/2AkRWq0
– Drone Business Made Easy: start your drone business with a solid foundation. https://bit.ly/3dVT55T
– Drone Flying 101: the perfect course for beginners. https://bit.ly/2XUy3Pc
– Drone Maneuvers Mastery: become a better pilot with these 50 maneuvers designed to improve your flying skills. https://bit.ly/3hkWkG3
– Cinematic FPV Drone From Scratch: build your own cinematic machine with this course. https://bit.ly/37oOfeG
Get Pilot Institute Gear
– T-shirt or Long Sleeve T: https://amzn.to/30CLtBw
– Polo shirt: https://kats-custom-embroidery-llc.myshopify.com/collections/pilot-institute-gear
The FAA just published a new document that hints at what Community Based Organizations guidelines for recreational flyers
In this video I am going to explain what Community based organizations are and what the FAA is expecting CBOs to have in their guidelines, and most importantly how this is going to affect YOU.
SHOULD do to fly a drone safely. Now, it also contains information about Community Based Organizations Guidelines.
It’s a non-for-profit group whose mission is to further model aviation, and is approved by the FAA.
Recreational rules requires you to follow the guidelines of a CBO but until now, the FAA didn’t approve neither CBOs nor guidelines!! This is what this document is for.
The FAA says that CBOs will be able to submit guidelines for approval that pertain to the operations of their users. For example, FliteTest will have guidelines for foam and model airplanes while the FPV freedom coalition will have guidelines for FPV drones. I’m sure there will be others too.
Now this may seem all nice and dandy but there’s a bit of a catch. Up until now, the recreational rules were rather simple: 9 bullet points, or 8 depending on who you ask. Those can’t change without an act of Congress. But you always needed to follow safety guidelines… it’s just that none were in place until now.
With this document, the FAA is putting the onus on the CBOs to create new rules in addition to what is already in USC 44809 (that’s the regulation code for recreational rules)… When the FAA asked for comments, I replied that these rules needed to stay simple. I was actually surprised to see that some of my comments made it word to word in the final document. But the overall tone of the document is still the same to me. The FAA is asking the CBO guidelines to be… well… too complicated.
And let’s be clear. The FAA doesn’t say: “These are the guidelines you NEED to have”. They basically say: “In order for us to approve these guidelines, we highly recommend you have the following… wink wink”
It’s like the mob boss telling you they’re taking someone out for an airing…
Don’t get me wrong, we need recreational flyers to be educated and doing the right thing. No one believe this more than I do. But, there’s a fine balance between safety and overkill. Too many rules means no one reads the rules or follows them. Too many rules also means someone needs to enforce them. And let’s face it, the FAA doesn’t have a good track record of doing that to date. We have a hard enough time right now getting people to understand and follow 9 rules.
What are those new guidelines going to look like? Well, there will be restrictions about flying over people. That’s right, there aren’t any right now in USC 44809!
There will be common sense restrictions about carrying HAZMAT or weapons, or not flying carelessly or recklessly (the FAA inspector’s favorite words), and not flying in airspace that’s temporarily restricted. And some mentions of pre, during and post flight safety. To me, those are great guidelines.
And for those who will fly FPV, there’s an entire special paragraph aimed at making sure you’re proficient to fly your FPV gear. And a big emphasis on visual line of sight and visual observer. And communications procedures. And Preflight inspection, again.
Then for everyone, not just FPV pilots, there will be guidelines on maintenance and record keeping. And software updates. And guidance
About the Author
Patryk Alexander is an associate copy editor at 4kVideoDrones.com, where he sharpens articles and helps keep the website's content clean and error-free. With a background in creative writing, Patryk brings a unique perspective to his editing that helps make 4kVideoDrones.com's content engaging and informative. When he's not editing or writing, Patryk enjoys spending time with his family and exploring the great outdoors.
