Trends in technology, including unmanned aircraft, would indicate that they are becoming more intuitive to use. The integration of sensors and automation into flight systems reduces pilot workload and the barrier to enter for new pilots. All of these facets support the manufacturer’s claim that users can simply pick up their products and start flying. While true to a degree, some public safety UAS pilots erroneously believe they can fly without any training beyond a Part 107 license.
The truth, however, is very different. The effectiveness of UAS operations depends heavily on two factors: pilot proficiency and the deployment of mission-appropriate resources. Now that your department has acquired aircraft, how does its pilots build up their flying abilities? What about adhering to operating procedures during different missions?
One way to address these questions is by taking one of FLYMOTION’s many training courses. We believe that offering equipment is only half of the equation for a successful UAS program. The value comes from creating a sustainable operation that goes beyond the sale of an aircraft. Equipping public safety pilots with the knowledge and skills to operate equipment effectively is one way in which we are ‘Supporting Those Who Serve.’
FLYMOTION Courses
With courses ranging from Part 107 training to disaster mapping and night operations to tactical thermography, FLYMOTION uses the accumulated UAS experience of our instructors to provide training at every level. Beginning pilots can prepare for the Part 107 exam through our test prep program.
Once certified, courses Response Tech 1 and Response Tech 2 are available to put pilots through scenario-based training. Flight procedures set in the context of emergency operations help participants understand the role of unmanned aircraft during incident response.
For agencies looking to increase their skill sets, we offer specialized courses like Interior Operations or Counter-UAS Operations. Interior Operations deal with how UAVs are best used indoors with more obstacles and challenges with teams outside of a structure. Interior Operations is particularly useful for agencies who deploy their UAS in support of SWAT calls. More importantly, attendees understand this partnership covers each other’s limitations.
Counter-UAS delves into the methods and systems for protecting airspace from intruding aircraft. These calls see pilots operating an aircraft in tight spaces and require well-developed skills. These courses and others make you pilots familiar with the specific demands, ensuring a better outcome when those situations occur.
Training With FLYMOTION
Florida State University’s Center for Disaster Risk Policy (CDRP) accredits several of our courses as indicated in our course catalog. Courses are taught periodically at our headquarters in Florida. However, the option exists for our instructors to train at your agency and on your schedule—having your pilots learn in their area of operations may fulfill needs in ways that a general course cannot. This flexibility has enabled FLYMOTION instructors to train some of the largest government and defense agencies across the globe in a variety of basic and extensive programs. The complete course catalog is available on the FLYMOTION website.
Using technology without the proper training will limit its potential. No level of technology features will replace the time spent using tools properly. With the right instruction, however, your pilots become more proficient, and your UAS program, becomes a valuable asset.
