by Cassandra Isackson
Director, Minnesota DOT Office of Aeronautics
Summer is over! As thoughts turn to installing winter fronts and changing floats for skis, we here at MnDOT Aeronautics are NOT hibernating. As always, aviation safety is our key concern.
When aircraft are readied for winter flying, remember to keep a sharp watch for migrating ducks, geese, and other birds. These days “other birds” are likely to include several different mechanical species referred to as unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), or drones.
About the size of a duck or goose, most low-flying drones weigh in at 10 pounds or less. It is extremely difficult for a small drone to be seen from a piloted aircraft, especially when the pilot is focused on the takeoff or landing phase of flight.
Sadly, many non-pilots simply buy a drone and start flying it. Staying away from active airspace is left entirely to the untrained or unaware operator, presenting a significant hazard where piloted aircraft are flying. Some newer drones use geo-fencing software to avoid designated no-fly zones, but very few have that capability built in. Additionally, most drones do not have transponders and are not in radio contact with piloted aircraft or air traffic control.
Although many would prefer to ban drones outright, they are in fact aircraft with multiple uses, adding value to our growing aviation community.
In Minnesota, aviation laws on the books since the 1930s include drones in the definition of aircraft. This requires any UAV with an N number to be registered and insured in our state.
We continue to work hard providing safe operational rules and guidelines for drone operators, and to inform existing aviators of changing technology in unmanned flight.
Learn more about unmanned aircraft systems and unmanned aerial vehicles.
Share your knowledge of airspace with friends and acquaintances that may plan a drone purchase as a holiday gift this season.
Brief your passengers to be extra eyes in the sky when you fly.
Spotting a rogue drone, like flight in seasonally changing weather, requires your proper planning and pre-flight briefing.
Maintain awareness and eyes out of the cockpit during all phases of the flight, especially at the beginning of the trip – and on that last turn to final.
Your aviation safety is our priority!
