5 Things to Know About Traveling With a Drone
Traveling with a drone can be really intimidating. It’s scary to be unaware of the regulations and potential consequences of breaking those regulations while abroad. The best antidote for that fear is education. Here are some tips to help you safely use your drone during your travels!
SAFETY IS SAFETY
There are some countries out there that have not specified regulations. This does not mean that it’s the wild wild west. It’s still your responsibility to fly safely and use common sense to not put others in danger.
Carry Your Batteries With You in Your Carry On Luggage
All airlines throughout the world restrict lithium ion batteries (your drone batteries) in checked baggage. There are concerns that the batteries can combust when damaged or put under pressure and that would be a terrible problem in the cargo hold of an airplane. Always carry your batteries in your carry on and be sure to remove them if you’re forced to check your carry on when you’re boarding.
Avoid Flying in Capitol Cities
If you’re from the US, you probably know or could guess that flying in Washington D.C. is an absolute no-no. In fact, you can’t fly within 25 miles of the White House. The reason is that important military and government facilities have serious security restrictions to protect themselves. Somehow it is easier to forget that you’re in a capital city when you’re visiting a foreign country like the United Kingdom, France, and other gorgeous drone worthy locations. Despite them being drone worthy, Paris and London have both banned drones as well as many other major cities for the same reason as Washington, D.C.
Just Because Someone Else Has Flown There, Doesn’t Mean It’s Allowed
There are drone pictures floating around Instagram of the Eiffel Tower and the Roman Colosseum, but that means it was probably done either with a special permit or illegally. Always do your research before assuming it is okay to fly.
How to Find Drone Regulations in Foreign Countries
The best way to do research on drone laws in foreign countries is to google, “drone laws [country]” and select the news tab of the google search. If there are serious issues with drones in that country, you’ll likely find the article here. After checking there, go to UAV Coach to see guides on every country’s drone laws.
Always check two or three sources to make sure you’re well educated on the regulations and the available resources to help keep you, your drone, and others safe.
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