Key Takeaways from DJI’s Monitoring of Hawaii Drone Incident
- DJI is actively involved in the investigation of a reported drone collision with a helicopter in Kauai, Hawaii.
- The company emphasizes the importance of responsible drone usage to ensure aviation safety.
- DJI continues to innovate safety technologies in their drones to prevent incidents in the air.
- Education for drone pilots is a priority, underscored by their partnership with the Federal Aviation Administration.
DJI Responds to Reports of Drone Collision in Hawaii
February 13, 2018 – In light of recent reports regarding a potential drone collision with a sightseeing helicopter over Kauai, Hawaii, DJI, the leading manufacturer of civilian drones and aerial imaging technology, has announced its commitment to assist aviation safety authorities in the investigation. This incident raises critical questions about drone safety and responsible flying in areas shared with traditional aircraft.
In its initial response, DJI noted that previous claims involving drone involvement have frequently proven inaccurate, and the current reports have not yet clarified the type of drone allegedly involved in the incident. As safety is paramount, DJI stands ready to provide any necessary support to ensure the full transparency and accuracy of the ongoing investigation.
The Importance of Responsible Drone Usage
DJI has reiterated its strong condemnation of unsafe drone operations, especially in environments that may conflict with established air traffic. To promote safer flying practices among drone pilots, DJI believes education is crucial. The company has recently implemented measures, such as a built-in Knowledge Quiz, aimed at educating U.S. customers on drone safety rules before their first flight. This initiative, developed in collaboration with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), underscores DJI’s commitment to enhancing aerial safety through informed piloting.
Cutting-Edge Safety Innovations
As the drone industry evolves, so does DJI’s commitment to safety and innovation. The company has pioneered several technological advancements to protect against unauthorized drone flights near sensitive areas, including airports.
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Geofencing Technology: DJI’s GPS-based geofencing system alerts drone operators about restricted zones and encourages compliance with aviation regulations. This feature has been integrated into their products since 2013.
- Flight Safety Resources: The FlySafe website offers drone operators access to best practices and regulatory links for different countries, while the flight control apps include warnings about essential safety protocols.
Advancements in Aerial Safety Technology
With millions of drones actively flying, DJI continues to enhance its technology to improve safety standards. Some noteworthy innovations include:
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The Knowledge Quiz: A feature within DJI’s flight control apps that requires new drone users to demonstrate an understanding of safe flying guidelines before they can commence flights.
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Mandatory Altitude Limits: Limitations built into DJI drones to prevent altitude violations.
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Automatic Return-to-Home: This capability ensures drones return to their launch point safely if they lose connectivity with their controllers or experience low battery levels.
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AirSense Technology: In their latest drones, DJI includes AirSense receivers, which detect ADS-B signals from manned aircraft, notifying drone operators of nearby flights to help reduce the risk of collisions.
- AeroScope System: DJI’s recent technology allows for the identification and monitoring of drones in flight, providing authority figures with immediate information, especially in sensitive environments.
A Commitment to Safe Practices
DJI emphasizes that drone pilots bear the responsibility for operating their equipment safely and legally, regardless of their location. The company encourages all users to respect local regulations and the operational needs of sensitive areas indicated in their geofencing systems.
Even with the known risks, DJI notes that there has been only one confirmed incident of a modern civilian drone colliding with a traditional aircraft, which occurred in September 2017 involving a U.S. Army helicopter in New York. Fortunately, no injuries resulted from that collision, which led to an investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) confirming that the pilot did not follow safe operation protocols.
While various reports from across the globe have suggested that drones have come into conflict with aircraft, DJI asserts that many of these claims lack corroborating evidence. Investigations often reveal that supposed drone collisions were either misidentified or attributed to other sources, like wildlife or mechanical failures.
By continuing to support effective regulatory frameworks, DJI remains committed to fostering a safe and innovative drone environment for all users. As they advance their technologies and education initiatives, the company reinforces its dedication to ensuring safety in our skies.
