Plane Avoidance Tech For Drones

New drone models use a technology to warn operators against nearby aeroplanes or helicopters.

16:42 28 February 2017

New models of DJI drones, the M200 series, are fitted with a collision avoidance system, called automatic dependent surveillance broadcast (ADS-B) that warns their operators when there is a risk posed by nearby aeroplanes or helicopters.

 

The technology allows users to see the position, altitude and velocity of surrounding aircraft so evasive action can be taken if required.

 

Dave Black from the commercial drone services firm Blackwing Aerial praised the move. He said: "It's an extra safety measure and will help drone operators work in restricted airspace,"

 

"The way we tend to do this is to contact air traffic controllers before we fly, tell them where we are flying and then they contact us by phone if there's going to be any conflict.

 

"But in time, the authorities may well also want this kind of feature fitted as standard before they approve operations with larger drones."

 

The M200 series drones, which are designed for industrial applications, could give drone pilots a false sense of confidence, one analyst has warned.

 

"The problem is that ADS-B isn't yet required for all aircraft, so even if you had a receiver you're not necessarily seeing all the traffic in the area," explained Colin Snow, chief executive of the Skylogic Research consultancy.

 

"Its use is also not required at the low altitudes at which commercial drones tend to fly.

 

"So, let's say you are a farmer in a rural area using a drone. There's a danger a crop duster could come into your zone - and they often do not use ADS-B - and catch you unaware.

 

"The other issue is that you only 'see' other aircraft when their ADS-B pings are retransmitted from towers on the ground and sometimes that doesn't happen."