Drones as Gifts and What You Need to Know
It's that time of year again, and, as in most recent years, drones are sure to be one of the hottest selling items in the stores and online.
However, before you rush out to get one for yourself or a friend or child, there are some things you need to know about owning drones.
1. Where does the owner live - Many larger drones available now have what is called geofencing in them. Basically they have GPS, and will not fly anywhere there is a no-fly zone in operation.
If the person you're buying a drone for lives within 30 miles of Washington DC for example, they are going to have a tough time trying to fly, even on their own property as the drone may not even power up.
2.
Flying illegally, and what can happen
Accidents do happen, and if you're flying illegally, you can expect a knock at the door.
A California man ignored the FAA's drone regulations whilst vacationing in Las Vegas. Not only was he flying in restricted airspace without permission, but he lost control of his drone, drifting away and landing next to an active runway at Las Vegas' main airport.
Now he is facing nearly $20,000 in fines from the federal government.
