Drone Journalism
What you need to know to get a drone license in the US and what separates a journalist from just someone with a controller in their hand.
1 Getting Started
In their simplest form, drones are cameras that fly. They encapsulate the complexities of both a camera and a flying object. The ethical and privacy issues associated with cameras have been debated since the Civil War. The concept of flying objects, while relatively newer (since 1903), has never been as accessible as it is today with flying cameras.
Purpose of Flying Cameras: Before delving into the legal aspects, consider what you can achieve with a drone. They offer unprecedented views and provide a scale for understanding the magnitude of various scenes and landscapes.
Legal and Ethical Aspects: In the United States, operating a drone requires passing an FAA test. To be both a knowledgeable user and a responsible journalist, understanding the history, law, and ethical boundaries is crucial before launching a drone into the skies.
1.1 The FAA Test
Requirements for FAA Part 107 Certification:
Minimum age of 16 years.
Proficiency in reading, writing, and understanding English.
Successful completion of the FAA’s aeronautical knowledge test.
Clearing a Department of Homeland Security background check.
This book primarily aids in preparing for the aeronautical knowledge test.
Test Locations and Format: The test, conducted by the Federal Aviation Administration, is available at nearly 700 certified testing facilities nationwide. It comprises 60 multiple-choice questions for first-time takers and 40 for renewals.
FAA’s Airman Certification Standards: FAA’s Airman Certification Standards provides a detailed breakdown of the exam topics. Insights from over 150 successful candidates are also included.
| Certification Knowledge Exam | Share | Number | Author’s Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regulations | 15-25% | 9-15 | Generally at the higher end |
| Airspace and Requirements | 15-25% | 9-15 | Expect challenging questions |
| Weather | 11-16% | 7-10 | Topics vary widely |
| Loading and Performance | 7-11% | 4-7 | More straightforward |
| Operations | 35-45% | 21-27 | Diverse and extensive |
Recurrent Test Topics: For those renewing their certification, the recurrent test focuses on several key areas, though specific details are still emerging.
| Recurrent Knowledge Exam | Topic | Share | Number |
|---|---|---|---|
| Area 1 | Operating Rules | 30-40% | 12-16 |
| Area 2 | Airspace Operations | 30-40% | 12-16 |
| Area 3 | Emergency Procedures | 20-30% | 8-12 |
Additional Test Details:
The test is computer-based with immediate results.
Only a basic calculator is allowed; no cell phones.
Valid identification is required.
Test fee: $160.
A 14-day waiting period is mandatory before a retake.
A passing score is 70%.
Scoring: For first-time takers, up to 18 incorrect answers are permissible. The test is pass/fail; scores above 70% are for personal satisfaction.