FAA unveils mobile application for drone owners

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) unveiled its new B4UFLY mobile application this week after it passed its initial beta testing phase.

The purpose of the app is to inform users about upcoming or current restrictions or requirements within the National Airspace System (NAS). This is specifically for people who use unmanned aircraft system (UAS) devices, or drones, as these restrictions and requirements affect how people operate their UAS devices.

The app features improvements that the FAA added thanks to feedback from the initial beta testing group. Users can know learn whether their current location is safe for UAS operations within two taps. There is also a planner mode that provides various locations and times that are safe for upcoming UAS flights. Now UAS users can inform local airports and air traffic control facilities of their intentions to fly their devices.

“We expect B4UFLY will help raise public awareness about what it means to operate unmanned aircraft safely,” FAA Administrator Michael Huerta said. “It is another important part of our education and awareness efforts to foster a culture of safety and accountability for the UAS community.”

The app can be downloaded from the Apple app store. There is also a beta version specifically for Android devices, now available on Google.