An Introduction to Small UAS Deployment for Emergency Responders: Considerations for Organizational Requirements and Operations

Civilian drones are coming of age. Years of development in the recreational sector have allowed manufacturers to significantly improve the reliability, capability and performance of drones. Lower acquisition costs and increased public acceptance has also led to the proliferation of drones, formally known as small unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). In August 2016, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approved regulations for the commercial use of drones and extended the applicability of these regulations to the public sector. Today, the use of drones is being considered by public and private organizations for a multitude of applications, both in routine day-to-day operations and for emergency response. Despite the many technological advances, specific standards for drone flight training and program development are woefully lacking. The FAA’s only requirement to obtain a drone pilot license is the successful completion of an independent study, knowledge-based written test. Currently, no standardized practical test exists. With hundreds of different drones available, the challenge of developing both a training and maintenance program for any organization becomes a daunting task. Guidance for drone program development is best served by subject matter experts in commercial aviation, drone law, public safety and public service organizations that can develop an emergency management program. The authors of An Introduction to Small UAS Deployment for Emergency Responders: Considerations for Organizational Requirements and Operations have developed recommendations for flight training and maintenance that help ensure the creation of a safe and efficient drone program. This material is based on the authors’ experience, from operating a variety drones to successfully accomplishing mission assignments and developing documentation. While the ability to collect data with drones can save emergency responders considerable effort and expense, the program will only be successful with properly trained personnel utilizing professionally maintained equipment under a coordinated Incident Action Plan (IAP) involving other response agencies. A properly structured drone program will result in rapid deployment, better accessibility and accountability, and dependable resilience under ＂blue skies＂ as well as during incidents involving an emergency response. Within this first publication, topics include the following: - Introduction to drone types and technology - Drone operations in the National Airspace System - Drone applications for all the Mission Areas of Emergency Management - Drone program structure for the public and private sector - Drone flight operations and maintenance An Introduction to Small UAS Deployment for Emergency Responders: Considerations for Organizational Requirements and Operations was written with the aim of providing all organizations with fundamental information about drones, regulations, and program management. This publication is the first in a series that helps prepare organizations and traditional emergency responders utilize drone technology in a safe and efficient manner.