Articles in this section

Event Preparation Checklist

  • Updated
Follow

As drones become more commonplace in the security measures of large public events, we at DroneSense have come up with this checklist to help ensure your organization meet all the criteria for legal flight and that you are pulling maximum value and capability out of your fleet and the DroneSense platform.

Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs)

  • Determine if a TFR will be in place. There are several resources to check:
    • The FAA’s TFR Map
    • Contacting your local FSDO
    • Contacting SOSC in DC
  • If a TFR is in place, process a TFR waiver. TFR waivers should be processed as far in advance of the event as possible. Apply for the TFR waiver through the TSA/FAA AAP website (https://waivers.faa.gov/aap/te_pages.p_login. DroneSense is happy to assist with this process.
  • The controlling body of the event or facility will need to provide a letter on official letterhead stating the agency has permission to operate. This letter should be included in you AAP application.
  • Copies of the TFR waiver should be given to all pilots.

DJI Unlocking

DJI offers a Qualified Entities Program (QEP) that allows First Responders and other qualifying organizations to pre-clear drones in flight restricted areas. DroneSense is happy to assist with registration with this process.

  • Once you’ve received the final TFR waiver, if your aircraft is not a part of the QEP program you will need to contact DJI for an unlock. You’ll need to provide the following information in order to process an unlock:
    • Copy of TFR Waiver
    • List of all aircraft flight controller serial numbers
    • Types of aircraft
    • DJI account email addresses for all pilots involved in flight operations
    • Date/time/duration of unlock
    • Distance/radius needed for unlock
  • If you are not participating in the QEP program, provide the DJI unlocking instructions to all pilots:

Network

Large scale and even smaller events can become complex if there are multiple UAS and multiple agencies involved in flight operations.

  • To help ensure operations run smoothly, designate a UAS Operations lead or Air Boss to be the point of contact for all UAS operations and associated logistics throughout the course of the event.
  • Determine Network Connectivity and speed. A viable live stream requires a decent wifi or cellular network connection.
    • Are you operating on a priority network such as AT&T First Net? What will the impact of a large crowd have on your network speeds and connectivity?
    • Have you gone through your network with your IT department to ensure streaming is functional on your network?

Additional Support

Contact DroneSense Support for help with these steps or to learn more about the available support options: