Drone Operations Undercover of Darkness: Rules for Both Leisure and Professional Pilots
In a significant move, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has updated its rules for drone night operations, making it easier for licensed drone pilots to fly at night without the need for a waiver.
New Lighting Requirements for Night Flights
To ensure visibility and avoid collisions, drones flying at night under Part 107 regulations must now be equipped with FAA-approved anti-collision lighting. These lights must be visible from at least 3 statute miles. The lighting typically includes strobe or similar high-visibility lights specifically designed for night operation.
Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and Supplementary Training
While the Part 107 remote pilot certificate is necessary for conducting commercial drone flights, including night operations, there is no FAA-mandated online course specifically for night flying. However, operators are encouraged to complete additional safety or skills training courses such as "Safe Drone Operations" to become proficient and comply with regulations.
No Specific FAA Online Course for Night Flying is Mandated
It's important to note that no specific FAA online course for night flying is mandated, but supplementary training courses are recommended for safe operations. The FAA Safety website offers an online course for Part 107 pilots to take before they can enjoy the privilege of flying at night.
Compliance with Anti-Collision Lighting Requirements
Your best bet for complying with anti-collision lighting requirements would be to use third-party anti-collision lights. The stock lights of most drones likely are not bright enough to comply with the requirements for anti-collision lighting.
LAANC System for Airspace Authorization
The LAANC system for requesting airspace authorization has been updated to accommodate night operations in controlled airspace for both Part 107 drone pilots and Recreational Flyers. To fly at night in controlled airspace, a request for airspace authorization through LAANC is required, indicating the hours during which the drone will be flown.
Remote ID and Night Operations
Remote ID is not directly related to being able to fly at night, and drones can still be flown at night without Remote ID technology. All drones being sold in the US will need to have a Remote ID before the end of 2022, and all drones operating in the national airspace will need to be equipped with Remote ID modules by late 2023 (with exceptions for pre-identified areas).
Safety First
Compliance with the rules for drone night operations ensures that drone flight at night remains as safe as possible. The FAA's update on night operations for drone pilots is an example of the rapid evolution of drone legislation, demonstrating the FAA's support of the drone pilot community. The FAA's support is further evident in the near-instant LAANC requests for controlled airspace, making it easier for drone pilots to operate within the law.
Drone pilots, under Part 107 regulations, are now required to equip their drones with FAA-approved anti-collision lighting for night flights. Operators are encouraged to complete additional safety or skills training courses to become proficient and comply with these updated night flight regulations.
