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Nov. 25, 2024
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Jill Green, Redmond Police Department Public Information Officer
jgreen@redmond.gov
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Redmond Police Department Becomes the First in the State to Receive FAA Approval for Operating Drones Without Visual Observers
REDMOND, WA - The Redmond Police Department has become the first agency in Washington and one of a handful nationwide to receive FAA approval to operate drones without a visual observer.
The FAA previously mandated the presence of a physical observer for all drone flights in Redmond. With this new authorization, the Redmond Police Department Drones as First Responders (DFR) program will now operate beyond the pilot's direct view without needing a visual observer.
This establishes a new benchmark for drone programs nationwide and represents a significant advancement in Redmond’s DFR program.
“As a premier law enforcement agency, this approval exemplifies our commitment to leveraging advanced and innovative technology to protect our community,” Chief Darrell Lowe said. “This is a monumental step toward improving response times and enhancing public safety, efficiency, and potential applications.”
The approval results from over a year of extensive testing, research, and collaboration with the FAA and key DFR platform providers.
It also highlights the FAA’s dedication to integrating Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) into the National Airspace System while upholding the highest safety standards.
The impact of this new standard extends beyond law enforcement, creating opportunities for more flexible and advanced drone operations across various industries that depend on UAS technology.
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