Check the FAA’s site for recommended apps like B4UFLY to verify airspace before flying.
B4UFLY isn’t a standalone app anymore, but its service is still accessible through other apps.
Even if geofencing was updated, it wouldn’t include TFRs. That’s something the pilot must always check.
He’s a tech-savvy guy who knew better. This is just a strategy to create enough doubt to get a lighter penalty.
That’s like blaming your car for going over the speed limit. It’s still your responsibility.
At least he admitted guilt and accepted the penalties. Hopefully others will learn from this.
This guy’s behavior is beyond frustrating.
Instead of taking accountability, he doubles down and blames the software. Unbelievable.
Keeping the drone within line of sight is a basic rule. No excuses.
If you can’t see the drone, you’re already in violation.
It’s ridiculous that he can plead guilty, pay a fine, and walk away while the rest of us meticulously follow every rule to avoid situations like this.
DJI removed geofencing to shift responsibility back to pilots. This guy’s just trying to shift blame for his own mistakes.
Flying near Santa Monica required multiple confirmations before launching. Pilots must verify airspace restrictions themselves.
He broke line-of-sight rules. That alone shows negligence.
DJI removed geofencing to avoid liability.
This guy made a terrible decision, but the FAA also shares blame for allowing drones to be sold without proper training requirements.
He pled guilty on January 31, 2025. Details: Central District of California | Culver City Man Agrees to Plead Guilty to Recklessly Crashing Drone into Super Scooper Firefighting Aircraft During Palisades Fire | United States Department of Justice
Flying into restricted airspace is the pilot’s responsibility. No one else’s.
Blaming the tech is like blaming a car’s speed limiter for speeding. It’s on the driver, not the manufacturer.
No matter what safeguards exist, it’s the pilot’s duty to follow the rules.