New app helps drones users with regulations and restrictions

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has released a smartphone app that will help owners of unmanned aircraft systems (a.k.a. drones) with current or upcoming requirements and restrictions.

The B4UFLY app is now available for Apple devices and can be found in the App Store. Now, with just two taps of the phone, users know if it is safe to fly at their current location.

The app provides a status indicator that tells users: “Proceed with Caution,” “Warning – Action Required,” or “Flight Prohibited.” The app also features a planner mode that allows users to select a different time and location for an upcoming flight and determine if there are any restrictions at that place and time.

By law, hobbyists who want to fly within five miles of an airport must notify the airport operator and the air traffic control facility (if there is one) prior to flying. For now, B4UFLY will ask users who are supposed to notify the airport before flying for voluntary information about their planned flight.

For more information visit the following FAA website: https://www.faa.gov/uas/