Lesson 57

Flying Near Wires & Other Obstacles

Most collisions accidents occur during clear days.

NOTAM: Definition, Requirements, Examples
TFRs: Definition, Requirements, Examples
NOTAMs & TFRs: In-Depth Examples

Guy Wires: Collision Prevention

The FAA doesn’t have specific guidelines or regulations that exclusively address flying near guy wires. However, the general rules and guidelines for safe drone operations apply.

Guy Wires: What are they?

Guy wires are tensioned cables or wires used in various applications to provide stability and support to tall or freestanding structures. Guy wires are attached to the structure at one end and anchored into the ground or another fixed point at the other end, creating a stable and balanced structure.

How to avoid collisions w guy wires:

Maintain Visual Line of Sight (VLOS): Keep your drone within your visual line of sight at all times.

Maintain Safe Distances: Guy wires can extend horizontally. Therefore, the towers should be avoided horizontally by at least 2,000 feet.

Right of Way

These right-of-way protocols are a standard aviation practice to enhance safety and avoid mid-air conflicts.

Right of way with Small UA

Small UA must yield the right of way to manned aircraft. Manned aircraft always have priority in the airspace.

Right of way with Manned Aircraft

Additionally, when encountering other small UA, operators should follow the “right of way” rule. If a larger UA is converging head-on with your UAS, both aircraft should adjust course to the right to avoid a potential collision.

Collision with Birds

If your UAS collides with a bird, file a wildlife strike report with the FAA.

FAA Regulations that help prevent collisions:

FAA regulations for collision prevention include maintaining Visual Line of Sight, flying below 400 feet AGL, respecting right of way, avoiding manned aircraft interference, adhering to controlled airspace and Temporary Flight Restrictions, and staying away from people and emergency response efforts.

  • Maintain Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) with your drone at all times.
  • Fly below 400 feet above ground level (AGL) unless operating within a higher structure or following a waiver.
  • Keep a safe distance from other aircraft, following the right of way rules.
  • Do not interfere with or disrupt manned aircraft operations.
  • Stay clear of controlled airspace unless you have obtained the necessary approvals.
  • Adhere to any Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) in the area.
  • Avoid flying over people not involved in the drone operation.
  • Do not fly near emergency response efforts or disaster recovery missions.

 

Tips and Tricks to Avoid Collisions:

 

  • Conduct a thorough pre-flight inspection of your drone to ensure it’s in proper working condition.
  • Use obstacle avoidance and collision avoidance systems if your drone is equipped with them.
  • Stay aware of your surroundings and scan for obstacles, including birds and guy wires.
  • Keep a safe distance from buildings, trees, and other structures to avoid collisions.
  • Be cautious when flying in areas with known bird activity and consider adjusting your flight path or altitude if needed.
  • Use an observer to help monitor the airspace and assist in spotting potential hazards.
  • Keep your drone within your skill level and practice safe flying techniques.
  • If flying near guy wires or similar structures, maintain a safe distance and fly with extra caution to avoid entanglement.

 

Practice Quiz

Avoiding Obstacles

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