drones

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has released the beta version of a new smartphone app called B4UFLY, to test its performance on unmanned aircraft.

Primarily aimed at model aircraft enthusiasts, the app provides users with information about restrictions or requirements regarding their flight location.

Expected to run for several months, the beta test will help accumulate data on B4UFLY functions, as well as identify possible software issues.

User feedback and operational data will be collected during the test to develop electronic notification process, which will be part of a future version of B4UFLY.

FAA Administrator Michael Huerta announced the initiative in May and volunteers were asked to test the app.

"The beta test will help accumulate data on B4UFLY functions, as well as identify possible software issues."

The agency said that those who have previously signed up will be able to use the app in the coming days.

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Key features of the B4UFLY include a clear status indicator that informs operators about their current or planned location, information on parameters that drive the status indicator, a ‘planner mode’ for future flights.

Other features are informative and interactive maps with filtering options and links to other FAA UAS resources and regulatory information.

The status indicator considers various attributes such as airspace, proximity to airports, temporary flight restrictions, current law and other FAA procedures.

Following the beta test, the agency plans to make B4UFLY available to the general public for iOS and Android devices.

B4UFLY will complement the Know Before You Fly campaign, which promotes awareness among unmanned aircraft (UAS) operators.

Image: An unmanned aircraft system. Photo: courtesy of Victor Habbick / FreeDigitalPhotos.net.