It’s a bird, it’s a plane…oh, it’s only a drone – 5 fun facts about drones

It’s a bird, it’s a plane…oh, it’s only a drone – 5 fun facts about drones

Ashley Merck, Staff Writer

It seems that in the world we live in today, drones are the latest and greatest technology. However, there are some facts people may be surprised to know about these small, yet powerful devices.

1. Eagles are trained to attack illegal drones in the Netherlands.

 Many law enforcements around the globe train animals such as dogs to partner with them in crimes, but in the Netherlands, policemen are trying a different approach by training eagles to take down illegal aerial drones, according to CBS News.

2. A pilot license is required to operate a drone.

 In order to operate a drone, a person must obtain a Remote Pilot License.  According to the Federal Drone Authority, “[One] must complete an Aeronautical Knowledge test at an FAA [Federal Aviation Administration] certified testing center, prior to applying for . . . certification.”

3. It is prohibited to fly drones over stadiums.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration, it is prohibited to fly a drone in and around stadiums beginning one hour before and one hour after a sporting event’s scheduled time.  Major League football and baseball, NASCAR sprint car and Indy car races are a few event stadiums where drones are prohibited.

4. Drones are providing an innovative way of delivering pizza.

Drones aren’t always used for capturing aerial footage.  In New Zealand, Domino’s Pizza is testing drones as a new way of delivering pizzas more quickly.  According to CNN, a customer will receive a notification on his or her smartphone, then the customer hits a button on the smartphone allowing the pizza to be lowered to the ground via a tether.

5. Drones are illegal to fly in many places in Florida due to strict privacy rules.

The state of Florida has strict rules of privacy so flying a drone and capturing footage of private property is prohibited.  Law enforcement, however, may use a drone if necessary with the approval of a search warrant, according to Sun Sentinel.