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Why good piloting skills are critical — even as drones get smarter

Posted by Dronerator

Drones are by definition, fully autonomous. Sure, not all the toy model aircraft marketed as ‘drones’ are truly autonomous, but the top-of–the-line industrial models surely are. So if drones are smart enough to fly themselves, then why do good piloting skills matter?

It turns out that good piloting skills don’t just matter, but they are critical especially for flying drones in high stakes situations, such as military and industrial applications.

A key reason why good piloting skills matter has to do not just with the technology powering your own aircraft, but how it interfaces with other technology nearby — most notably drone GPS jammers.

Many drones rely on GPS for stabilization, navigation, tracking and general flight operations. But whether the GPS signal goes down because you’re flying in a challenging environment such as a remote area (as you might experience with your cell phone when camping or at a crowded stadium), or if the GPS signal goes down because another opposing party intentionally jammed it, then you need to be able to fly sans GPS. 

There are companies like InfiDome and Honeywell that build technology that counters GPS jammers. Some drone companies are taking on the task of protecting their vehicles from drone jamming themselves. For example, the Autel EVO Max 4T uses advanced flight control modules and algorithms specially designed to counter RFI, EMI, and GPS spoofing.

The Autel EVO Max 4T drone. Photo courtesy of Autel.

But perhaps a better solution is just having ultra-skilled pilots who can fly drones without GPS (and who know how to find it again).

“When you get hit by GPS jamming, you have to go into manual mode,” said Red Cat CEO Jeff Thompson at the Canaccord Genuity 43rd Annual Growth Conference this summer.

Red Cat  is an American drone giant that builds drones primarily for military use cases, such as the $15,000 Teal 2 and $14,800 Teal Golden Eagle drones.

“We don’t care if there’s GPS because we turned it off,” said Thompson. “We have to train pilots to have those tactics.”

Red Cat trains pilots to develop their flying skills, which includes tactics to engage in when encountering drone hammers. That might be flying outside of the ‘bubble’ of drone jammers.

“Jamming can’t be everywhere all the time, because it needs a lot of power to do that,” Thompson said. “When you get hit with a GPS jammer, go to manual mode and fly 400 feet up or 400 feet to the left and find the edge of the bubble.”

But Thompson said most pilots don’t currently have those skills.

“Most drone pilots came into it as, say, a realtor,” he said.

But there is a segment of the drone industry that does have some seriously talented drone pilots — and that’s drone racing.

Kang Chang-hyeon (R), a teenaged drone-racing champion pilots his aircraft during a drone-racing league round in South Korea in 2021. (Photo by JUNG YEON-JE/AFP via Getty Images)

“The company we bought, Teal drones, was founded by a racing pilot,” Thompson said.

That founder is George Matus, and he initially set out to build a drone that could fly up to 85 mph. Teal was acquired by Red Cat in 2021, and around that time pivoted from being a consumer-friendly drone company focused on drone racing to one building drones for defense.

But the way you fly racing drones is not unlike the way you might fly industrial and military drones — at least in some ways.

“In racing drones, you don’t have any GPS assistance or hover assistance,” Thompson said. “You’re flying it like you’re a jet pilot.

In fact, having strong drone piloting skills are so critical for military applications that the U.S. Air Force has made seeking out the world’s top recruiting pilots a significant part of its recruiting strategy.

piloting skills Air Force
United States Air Force Senior Airman William Swain operates a sensor control station for an MQ-9 Reaper during a training mission in 2007 at Creech Air Force Base in Indian Springs, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

The United States Air Force (USAF) has held a seven-year long partnership with the Drone Racing League (DRL), which is an e-sports group that hosts massive competitions to name the world’s best drone pilot. The USAF’s logic in partnering with DRL has been to recruit the next generation of USAF personnel, and this year the USAF/DRL partnership expanded to include an actual pilot endorsement.

“The league engages a coveted audience of young, high-energy Tech-Setters who have a passion for flight, innovation and technology,” said U.S. Air Force Brigadier General Christopher Amrhein in a prepared statement surrounding the news. “They are future U.S. Air Force recruits and airmen, and a core reason why we continue to renew our partnership with DRL year after year.”







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The post Why good piloting skills are critical — even as drones get smarter appeared first on The Drone Girl.

Spy Scare at Baykar Drone Factory

Posted by Dronerator
An intern working at Turkey’s world-renowned drone producer Baykar was caught trying to steal four hard disks while leaving the company’s factory premises in Istanbul on Monday. The facilities in Hadımköy of Baykar, the manufacturer of unmanned aerial vehicles such as Bayraktar Akıncı, TB3, TB2, as well as Kızılelma, were at the center of an […]

Drones Deliver Defibrillators for Cardiac Arrest Faster than Ambulances

Posted by Dronerator
Drones delivering defibrillators consistently outperform ambulances in the race to get life-saving treatment to people who have experienced heart failure, according to a landmark new trial in Sweden. To see whether drones could cut the time taken to get defibrillators to collapsed patients, Andreas Claesson at the Karolinska Institute in Sweden and his colleagues launched a collaborative […]

Centaurium UAS and Thales to Test Thales’ UAS100 Drone for Long-Range Operations in Switzerland.

Posted by Dronerator
On 22 November 2023, Centaurium UAS and Thales signed a cooperation agreement which also comprises the delivery of two Thales UAS100 drone systems and ground control stations to the Switzerland-based company ahead of testing in the spring of 2024 and the planned start of commercial operations in 2025. From risk monitoring on large-scale infrastructure to border surveillance, […]

Twente Airport as a Test Location for Quiet Aviation Innovation

Posted by Dronerator
Quiet aviation innovation is essential to reduce aircraft noise pollution in the surrounding areas. In the pursuit of quieter aircraft, field sound measurement plays a crucial role. Researchers from the University of Twente are, therefore, developing a sound testing setup and have successfully tested it at Twente Airport. Based on these sound measurements, new and […]

Drone Champions League (DCL) Soars to New Heights in Abu Dhabi Winter Season Finale

Posted by Dronerator

Drone Racing in Abu Dhabi: DCL Expands  The Drone Champions League (DCL), the leading professional drone racing organization globally, is gearing up for expanded horizons in the Gulf Region after a thrilling winter season final in Abu Dhabi. The two-day event, held from November 17-18, showcased six top DCL teams competing on a cutting-edge virtual […]

The post Drone Champions League (DCL) Soars to New Heights in Abu Dhabi Winter Season Finale appeared first on DRONELIFE.

2023 Black Friday: even more drone deals newly announced

Posted by Dronerator

Hope your Thanksgiving was filled with turkey and love! Now tomorrow is Black Friday — but most of the biggest deals start today (if they haven’t already started). It seems the sales get bigger every year, and 2023 Black Friday is no exception.

Whether you’re an experienced drone pilot or a newcomer looking to purchase your first drone, this year’s 2023 Black Friday brings drone deals tailored to a range of products. 

Many of the deals started especially early this year (we spotted many Black Friday 2023 drone deals last week!), but even more just came in today. Throughout the week and into today, we’ve scoured the sales for the best Black Friday drone deals of 2023. From DJI’s cutting-edge technology to funny drone stocking stuffers, we’ve found the best discounts for every budget. 

While most sales (particularly the DJI products) are scheduled to end on Cyber Monday (Nov. 27), many Amazon deals do not have an announced ending date and could end at any time (so snag any deals you see now). 

Here are the best 2023 Black Friday drone deals so far (we will continue to update this tomorrow and through Cyber Monday as we find more): 

DJI 2023 Black Friday deals (all sales end Nov. 27)

Save up to $429 on DJI Avata Combos

If you have been thinking about getting into drone racing, now is the time. At 30% off, the DJI Avata is the largest markdown of any DJI product. Up until Nov. 27, you can purchase the DJI Avata Explorer Combo for $889.

The DJI Avata is an FPV drone that is just 405 grams and is perfect for flying inside (but also flies well outside in most cases). With the DJI Avata, you can fly through door frames and under tables, making dramatic turns and tight fits through furniture and buildings. Plus, you don’t lose out on quality footage with the Avata high-quality camera. 

The DJI Avata Pro-View Combo is also on sale for $999 (originally $1,428). The difference between the two combos is that the Explorer Combo comes with the DJI Goggles Integra while the Pro-View comes with DJI Goggles 2.

Both the DJI Goggles Integra and DJI Goggles 2 are similar in size, video transmission performance, and screen display. The Integra is cheaper, while unsurprisingly, the Goggles 2 is more powerful and has upgraded features.

Here is our full guide on how to turn the Mavic 3 into an FPV drone, along with a more detailed breakdown of the two types of DJI FPV goggles.

Save up to $260 on the DJI Air 2s

If you are shopping for an on-the-go photographer, you have come to the right spot. The DJI Air 2s is incredible for photographers who prioritize budget and portability. 

This small drone has a massive 1” sensor offering 20-megapixel photos and 5.4K video. That’s the same as what you get in the larger, more expensive Mavic 2 Pro.  

There are a few options for the DJI Air 2s currently on sale. If you already own a DJI RC-N1 controller, then I would recommend purchasing the DJI Air 2s: now $759, originally $949 on Amazon.

If you don’t have a controller, then you’ll want to buy the DJI Air 2s Fly More combo which is currently 20% off.

DJI Mini 3 discount drone

Save $143.64 on the DJI Mini 3 Fly More Combo (DJI RC)

With the DJI Mini 3 Fly More Combo, you’ll get the Mini 3, the RC controller, a shoulder bag, intelligent flight batteries, and other accessories. 

The Mini 3 Fly More Combo is usually $798, but is on sale for $654. The DJI Mini line is often known as DJI’s drone line for beginners. So this Fly More combo comes with everything you need, I can’t think of a better gift for the novice drone lover in your life. If you do end up purchasing this as a first-time drone, consider the Drones 101 course from Drone Launch Academy, the course is currently 50% off. 

Notable features of the DJI Mini 3 features include its lightweight (249 grams), long flight time, and 4K HDR video. 

DJI Mini 2 SE

Save $40 on the DJI Mini 2 SE 

If you want an even more inexpensive drone, look no further than another drone in the DJI Mini line, the DJI Mini 2 SE. 

Hands down, there is no better drone under $400 than the DJI Mini 2 SE. And during the Black Friday sale, you can get that drone for under $300. The DJI Mini 2 SE is currently on sale for $298. 

DJI Goggles Integra

Save up to $160 on DJI drone accessories 

Perhaps the person you are shopping for already has a DJI drone but is looking to turn that drone into an FPV drone. Gift them the DJI Goggles 2 and DJI Goggles Integra, which are both on sale. 

The DJI Goggles 2 has a larger discount (20% off) and is more powerful with upgraded features. The Goggles Integra is 15% and less powerful, but lighter than the DJI Goggles 2. 

The Goggles 2 Motion Combo is also 20% off. The DJI Goggles Motion 2 Combo comes with the Goggles 2 and the RC Motion 2. This combo is compatible with the Mavic 3 series, Avata, and Mini 3 Pro drones. If deciding between the Goggles 2 or the Combo, I would recommend the combo. The addition of the controller gives you the true FPV experience.

If you already own the RC Motion 2, just stick with the Goggles 2.

Save up to $240 on other DJI products 

If you are shopping for the drone lover in your life, chances are they are either an adventurer, a photographer, or both. Whether they are vlogging, or mountain biking, DJI has products on sale that are sure to be a hit.

The DJI RSC 2 is a compact gimbal for mirrorless cameras with a smart, folding design and smooth stabilization. The combo pack has additional accessories with the RSC 2 gimbal, like the DJI Ronin RavenEye image transmission system, a focus motor, a phone holder, and more.

The DJI RSC 2 Pro Combo is on sale at B&H and Amazon, although you’ll save an additional $100 if you purchase on B&H.

DJI’s action cameras are a great addition to any drone lover’s travel bag and two are on sale for Black Friday. The Osmo Action 3 is a waterproof action camera, similar to a GoPro. The Osmo Action 3 camera is currently 15% off, saving you $50. 

Another DJI action camera, the Action 2 Dual Screen Combo & Power Combo, is currently on sale for 23% off (down to just. $309). The DJI Action 2 has a modular design, primarily holding gadgets and gizmos together via magnetism. 

Drone pilot courses and workshops are on sale for 2023 Black Friday

Give the gift of knowledge this year with a drone pilot test prep course or workshop. Anyone who plans on flying drones commercially (that means you’re making money in some capacity from your flight), then the Federal Aviation Administration requires you to hold a Remote Pilot Certificate – commonly referred to as a drone pilot license. 

In order to get the license, you’ll need to pass the online Part 107 test.  Passing the test takes some prep work, so we recommend going through an online Part 107 training course. Some of the best Part 107 test prep courses are on sale for Black Friday. 

Don’t worry if the person you are shopping for already has passed the Part 107 test. There are also some workshops on sale for almost every niche drone hobby (or even better — small business venture!) you can think of. 

2023 Black friday drone deals Drone Pilot Ground School

Save $107 on Drone Pilot’s Ground School’s Part 107 test prep course 

The Drone Ground School’s Black Friday sale, or Fly-Day sale, began way back on Thursday, Nov. 9, and runs until Nov. 24. The Drone Pilot Ground School is one of the best Part 107 drone test prep courses.  It’s the course Drone Girl herself, Sally French, took and passed the Federal Aviation Administration’s Aeronautical Knowledge Test on her first try. 

The Drone Pilot Ground School’s Fly-Day sale offers three different test-prep package levels to choose from, each $107 off. 

And since all three programs have a pass or don’t pay guarantee, your gift will have an extra reassurance that you’ve made the right choice. 

  • Purchase the Drone Pilot Ground School test prep course through this link and the sale price will automatically apply. 
Black friday 2023 drone launch academy

Save $99.50 on Drone Launch Academy’s Part 107 test prep 

The Drone Launch Academy is also getting in on all the Black Friday sales. Buy a course by Cyber Monday (Nov. 27) for a 50% discount and enjoy 4 free months of Drone Launch Connect membership for free! 

It’s pretty major to see the test prep course listed for $99.50 (normally $199) because — even prior to the sale — it made the list of the best Part 107 online test prep programs for those on a budget. While Drone Launch’s discount is less in terms of dollars versus Drone Pilot Ground School’s, the relative discount is actually bigger — and the total price you pay is far lower.

Even if you aren’t ready to spend what we consider a great rate of $99.50 for the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot exam prep course, Drone Launch Academy has a ton of other cheaper Part 107 test prep gift options, all 50% off.  

2023 black friday drone launch academy

Save up to $299 on Drone Launch Academy’s boot camps and workshops

In addition to Part 107 courses, Drone Launch Academy is offering 50% off of all their other courses and workshops (all deals run through Nov. 27th). 

If the drone lover in your life has already passed the Part 107 test and is ready to take their drone business or new hobby to the next level, Drone Launch Academy has workshops to fit every niche drone hobby. 

One standout is Drone to $1K: An 8-Week Drone Business Building Bootcamp (now $299.50, originally $599), where you’ll learn how to get your first client, how to form an LLC, how to build a strong online presence, the ins and outs of marketing, how to set up more of the back office side of your business, and more. 

The Real Estate Media Pro course (now $199.50, originally $399) is another popular course for newer entrepreneurs as there’s a relatively low barrier to entry. You’ll learn how to capture high-quality real estate photos, videos, 3D tours, and drone footage that will wow your clients.  

A similar but more affordable course is the Landing and Working with Real Estate Video Clients course (now $49.50, originally $99) or Landing Real Estate Clients through Instagram course (now $49.50, originally $99).

From Drone Mapping and Modeling Fundamentals to Aerial Video A to Z, all Drone Launch Academy courses are 50% off. Check out their full list of courses and workshops here.

Non-DJI drones on sale for Black Friday

Given its massive market share, DJI dominates the conversations around consumer drones. However, this Black Friday there are plenty of non-DJI drones on sale for any budget.

Sally French, The Drone Girl, reviews the Autel Evo Lite+ in May 2022.

Save $210 on Autel EVO Lite+ Drone

The Autel Evo Lite+ is our pick for the best non-DJI camera drone you can buy. The Autel Evo Lite+ drone stands out given how it bridges the gap between some of the Mavic 3’s most swoon-worthy features but at a price point much closer to the DJI Mini 3 Pro.

The drone packs a large, 1-inch CMOS sensor into a relatively small package, thus you get a pretty remarkable ability to capture 6K video. The EVO Lite+ is an excellent gift for a photographer looking for a higher-end drone who doesn’t have the budget for something like a DJI Mavic 3.

For $799 (usually $1,139), you’ll get the drone, remote controller, battery and more. The Autel EVO Lite+ is on sale on B&H and Amazon, but you’ll save an extra $10 if you purchase it on Amazon.

Save $66 on the HoverAir x1 

The HoverAir X1 is already relatively inexpensive. For 2023 Black Friday, you can get the HoverAir X1 for $399, originally $445. Don’t expect a DJI-quality drone, but the HoverAir X1 offers features that most drones can’t: the ability to fly indoors, near people, record sound, and fly totally hands-free. 

The HoverAir X1 makes a great gift for younger drone lovers or vloggers. 

Save $20 on the DEERC D20 Mini Drone for kids 

This is an excellent drone toy for kids. Flying is simple by tapping one button, and the drone is equipped with special features like altitude hold and emergency stop. Also, voice control and gesture features are sure to amaze even the tough kid critics. 

The D20 toy drone is currently 29% off on Amazon (the end of the sale date is unclear) and comes in 5 different colors. 

Save $3,800 on the Freefly Alta X (aircraft only with F9P GPS)

The Alta X is a relative newcomer to the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Defense Innovation Unit’s (DIU) Blue UAS Cleared list.

The Alta X is Freefly Systems’ sixth generation of drones designed to fly in tough environments. Additionally, they’re designed and manufactured in the U.S. and are designed for a range of missions. Notable capabilities include open architecture, VTOL, and up to 35 lbs of usable payload capacity.

More 2023 Black Friday drone-related deals

As mentioned, we will continue to update this post as we find more deals, but as of now, here are some deals to pique any drone lover’s interest. 

Save $49.99 on the Nanuk 925 waterproof hard case for Mavic 3 Pro/Pro Cine

The hard-shell Nanuk case provides impact protection and is water and dust-resistant. The case can be even more submerged in water for up to 30 minutes. Everything inside is kept safe and organized with dedicated custom-cut form compartments.

The case comes in 6 different colors and can hold a Mavic 3 Pro with the Fly More Combo accessory bundle or a Mavic 3 Pro Cine with DJI RC remote with accessories.

Save $16 on a Samsung PRO Plus memory card + reader 

The Samsung PRO Plus microSD memory card recently made our list as one of the best memory cards for drones and it is on sale for $22 (originally $38). 

Memory cards make perfect gifts for drone users because you can never have enough! No one wants to be out filming footage and read the alert “memory low”. Give the gift of peace of mind, by buying a memory card. Please note, that this memory card is an Amazon Black Friday flash deal, so there is no way of knowing when this deal may end, so act fast! 

Save $25 on the NiSi filmmaker filter kit plus for DJI Mavic 3

This filter kit can enhance video footage thanks to the ND32 and ND64 filters that reduce light into the Mavic 3 lens by 5 and 6 stops. They also feature IR technology to ensure accurate color cast.

The filters are 20% off but keep in mind these drones only work with a DJI Mavic 3 drone.

Save $18 on the Ruggard DLP-30 30″ drone landing pad

Easily locate where to land, and shield your drone from damage with this drone landing pad from Ruggard. On sale for $16.95, it is hard to pass up.

The Ruggard drone landing pad comes with three pegs to stay in place and has a collapsible design, so you can store it easily in the included zippered carrying bag.

Save $15 on the Lume Cube Strobe anti-collision light for drones

This is not only a thoughtful gift, but one that’ll ensure you are following FAA guidelines when flying at night. Each strobe light includes a 3M dual-lock mount and a micro-USB charging cable, and it’s compatible with any drone.

Save $9.60 on the Airdrop Device for the DJI Mini 2 series

Give the gift of the ultimate party trick this holiday season. Get creative and turn your drone into a delivery device. This airdrop device is compatible with DJI Mini/Mini SE, Mini 2/Mini 2 SE.

The airdrop device is easy to install and comes with one quick-release controller. This airdrop device is currently 20% off and can be used for everything from delivering food to throwing fishing bait.

Drone-related stocking stuffers (gifts under $15)

Sometimes great things come in small, budget-friendly packages. So, we’ve rounded up some of the best drone stocking stuffers sure to delight any drone enthusiast without breaking the bank.

Save $6.50 on a protective cover for a DJI RC remote

On sale for only $8.49, this Mini 3 Pro protective cover makes the perfect little stocking stuffer. The 2 in 1 design gives users a protective cover, but also a hood. Anyone who has ever flown a drone on a sunny day would appreciate anything to stop the glare on their controller.

Save $2.99 on the Pgytech Control Stick Protector for DJI Mavic Mini & Mini SE controllers

Snap the control stick protector onto your DJI Mavic Mini or Mavic SR gimbal controller to protect it while not in use. These protective caps fit over the joysticks and allow the joysticks to remain attached while carrying the controller giving you extra protection over your drone controller. 

Save $3.20 on the Batschkim 4-in-2 charger for DJI products

This Betschkim charger for DJI Mini 4 Pro, Mini 3 Pro, Mini 2 SE, Air 3, and Air 2S is on the top of my wish list, as I almost always forget to charge something when I am heading out for a day of drone flying. This 4 in 2 USB-C cable is specially designed for DJI devices and the charging set supports multi-slot fast charging for up to 4 devices simultaneously.

The charger is currently 20% off and is compatible with many other DJI products like Goggles 2, Osmo Action, and more.

Save $3.50 on a lanyard neck strap and joysticks for the DJI RC/RC 2 controller 

For $13.59, you’ll get an adjustable leather lanyard and 1 pair of joysticks. No need to worry if your gift will be used, the comfortable lanyard is sure to join the drone pilot on every flight. The lanyard and joysticks are designed for DJI RC/RC 2 controllers. 

Deals on non-drone products that drone pilots love

These products are technically not for your drone, but they will very likely be well-received by the type of person who loves drones. 

Save $30 on Ring indoor camera (2nd gen)

Drone pilots likely have some pretty precious (and probably expensive) belongings in their homes that they would want to keep safe. 

The all-new Ring indoor camera has color night vision, two-way talk, and manual audio, and is currently 50% off now. The Ring indoor camera gives you protection and privacy in your home. The Ring cam is on sale from Amazon as a flash deal, so it is difficult to say when the deal might end. 

Save $10 on a limited edition Star Wars stand for Amazon Echo Dot 

Let’s be honest, most of us drone lovers are also nerds. Just look at the first drone light show The Drone Girl ever saw in person. That’s why we couldn’t pass up this deal. Amazon is currently selling a Darth Vadar, The Mandalorian, and Stormtropper stand for your Amazon Echo Dot for $30, originally $40. 

These themed stands are sure to delight any Star Wars nerd and can be easily placed on a table, desk, or nightstand for a great statement piece. Make sure, the person you are purchasing for already owns an Amazon Echo Dot (4th or 5th generation) otherwise these stands are useless. 

Save $6 on the Foroxin journal notebook 

Personally, I always have my notebook in my drone bag whenever out flying. Whether it’s to jot down something to remember for my next flight or something to look up later, my drone notebook is a trusty companion when I am out exploring. 

The journal comes in nine colors and has the option of a ruler or a blank notebook. It’s a good stocking stuffer for the drone lover, or really anyone in your life, and is on sale now for $6.44. 

Save $24.95 on JBL wireless on-ear headphones

Certainly, when editing my hours of drone footage, high-quality headphones are a must. These JBL headphones feature the JBL pure bass sound, Bluetooth connectivity, and 40 hours of battery life. The headphones are currently 50% off on Amazon. Plus, beyond their functional benefits headphones have become fashion accessories and the JBL headphones come in four different colors: black, blue, white, and rose. (If anyone is reading this and is looking for a gift for me, personally, I love the rose color.)

Have you found any great 2023 Black Friday drone deals? Tell us about it in the comments or on Instagram @thedronegirl.

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