Drone Operations for Public Agencies

Course Objectives and Agenda (CLICK HERE)

Please be aware that this class is a 16-hour training. Therefore, the training will be 8am-5pm local time each day.

Drones/UASs are an amazing law enforcement tool, and they are increasingly being utilized to great effect.  Current FAA rules authorize public agencies and pilots to “self-certify” under the statutory requirements for public aircraft.  However, UAS operations must still be flown in accordance with all FAA rules pertaining to UASs, and under a Certificate of Authorization (COA) for flight. These public agency requirements are not taught to commercially/privately licensed UAS pilots. A failure to abide by these FAA rules, and all federal and state laws could place your agency in legal jeopardy!

This course will be taught by a seasoned, licensed, law enforcement UAS pilot with years of practical public agency experience.  The instructor will provide your agency with information regarding the latest laws, rules, and regulations, and will assist you in building a professionally trained, certified and well-managed public agency drone program.

 A 2-day (16hrs) classroom session will provide information on the following:

Federal Regulations and Laws 

• The Federal Aviation Administration

• Certificate of Authorization (COA) Development

• Drone Registration and Markings

• Airspace

• Coordination with Air Traffic Control

• Drone Software Restrictions

• Federal, State and Case Law Pertaining to Drone Use

• Pre-Flight, Flight, and Post-Flight Rules and Procedures

Your Agency’s Program 

• Finding a Drone for YOUR Organization

• Law Enforcement Best Practices

• Agency Drone Policy

• Training Requirements

• Inspections and Maintenance

• Battery Disposal

• Flight Crew Considerations

• Safety Management System

• Communications Architecture