What do you do if you're a drone operator who wants to learn from mistakes and prevent future repeats?

As a pilot it’s important to practise, practise, practise. Not only practising the operation of flight but also how to deal with an emergency or incident. In doing so you can be more comfortable should there be an issue and, can be confident in utilising all the information to hand on how best to reduce the risk of this type of incident occuring.

Knowing that the regulations are in the area you wish to operate is not an option, it’s a necessity. In the U.K. the regulations can, to some seem complex but there are some very helpful organisations who can provide training, communities such as LinkedIn for advice is always recommended and, if unsure don’t take to the air. Remember - safety first.

Training with a small toy drone like the Ryze Tello can greatly benefit both new and experienced drone pilots. For beginners, the Tello provides an accessible and user-friendly platform for safely learning the basics of drone piloting without the worry of causing expensive damage due to crashes, thanks to its durability and indoor flight capabilities. This allows for learning under various conditions, which promotes consistent skill development. Experienced pilots can use the Tello to improve their flying skills and try out advanced maneuvers in a controlled environment. The drone's indoor flight capability allows for practicing precision flying and navigating complex scenarios, which enhances situational awareness and agility.

The industry is moving so fast: Technology is improving providing even more opportunities and, safety. Staying in contact with other pilots, connecting via social platforms and ensuring you’re subscribed to regulator news letters is essential. Piloting a drone in flight is only part of what’s required to be a competent operator make sure you stay up to date with changes and regulations. I personally would always recommend undertaking a qualification even if you don’t need it.

Learning from past experiences is crucial for drone operators. One effective practice is maintaining a detailed logbook. This log records flight hours, locations, accidents, near-misses, and the specific circumstances surrounding these events. It's important to detail the responses to each incident, lessons learned, and any adjustments made to operating procedures. This approach helps identify patterns that could lead to future risks and serves as a valuable training tool for the team. Reflecting on these experiences and integrating them into training will enhance operational safety and efficiency.

Remember that piloting a drone is about so much more than just getting into the air. Make sure you stay up to date with your local regulations, check that you’re area of operation is clear and safe to fly within and, connect with other operators and pilots to increase your knowledge.