First Responder Flight Operations

Overview

The First Responder Flight Operations course takes participants from zero flight experience to flying confidently for most public safety responses. It starts with basic drone hardware and software orientation and builds to multi-aircraft major incident response scenarios. The course is designed to build on public safety standards such as Law Enforcement Drone Association type 1 and 2 or NFPA 2400.

You’ll learn how to obtain airspace authorizations, deconflict airspace for multi-aircraft operations, conduct night operations and use thermal payloads effectively. Most scenarios are designed for, but not limited to, search for person responses.

Each scenario is built from real-world public safety responses and instructed by public safety subject matter experts from across the country. The tactics and processes you learn will prepare you for virtually any major incident you respond to.

What you’ll learn

• UAS hardware and software orientation
• Basic flight operations (LEDA or NFPA 2400 standards)
• Authorizations and waivers
• Autonomous flight operations
• Major incident response tactics
• Night operations
• Basic thermography
• Search for person tactics

Who it’s for

Entry-level to advanced pilots. Real-world, scenario-driven training, including for agencies starting a program.

Prerequisites

A Part 107 certificate is not required, but it is recommended.

What’s included

• Train on your own drones or use UTG’s drones
• Documentation for first responder continuing education credits