Remote Identification, or Remote ID, is a wireless number plate to identify nearby drones. It contains basic information like operator, purpose, and current position. Most importantly, the EU and USA are planning new rules that make so-called direct or broadcast Remote ID mandatory for drones over 250 grams of weight. The general public law enforcement can use the Remote ID information that drones broadcast but also drones themselves to give better awareness of the airspace around them.
September 13th, 2023:
FAA has made an announcement that the Remote ID enforcement has been extended by six months to March 16th, 2024.
Which Drone Pilots Must Comply With the Rule?
Beginning September 16, 2023 March 16th, 2024, all drone pilots required to register, including those who fly for recreation, business, or public safety, must operate their drone following the rule on Remote ID.
These rules require most drones to have the ability to broadcast identification and location information while in flight. This information can be received by authorities, other aircraft, and the general public.
Here are a few key points related to Remote ID for drones
- Identification Broadcast: Drones equipped with Remote ID technology transmit certain information, including the drone’s location, altitude, speed, and a unique identifier, to a network that authorities and other parties can access.
- Network-Based and Broadcast Solutions: The Remote ID system can be achieved through network-based solutions, where the information is sent to a Remote ID service provider, or broadcast solutions, where the data is directly transmitted to nearby receivers.
- Privacy Concerns: Concerns have been raised about the potential for misuse of personal data collected by Remote ID systems, such as location tracking of drone operators. Regulatory efforts aim to balance the need for transparency with protecting privacy.
- Implementation Deadlines: Regulatory agencies like the FAA have established deadlines for manufacturers to implement Remote ID technology in their drones. This allows for a phased approach to integrating Remote ID into the drone ecosystem.
- Exceptions: Some small drones, like those used for recreational purposes, might be exempt from Remote ID requirements. However, specifics can vary by jurisdiction.
- Benefits: Remote ID can enhance safety by allowing authorities to quickly identify drones in the event of incidents or unauthorized flights near sensitive areas. It can also pave the way for more advanced drone operations like flying beyond visual lines of sight and overpopulated regions.
Since regulations and technology can evolve rapidly, I recommend checking with your local aviation authority or relevant regulatory body to get the most up-to-date information on Remote ID requirements in your region.
Information Broadcast by Remote ID
The Remote ID technology provides the serial number of every particular flight of the drone. If the drone is within range of Remote ID broadcast system, it will share the following information about the drone..
- Unique Identifier
- longitude and latitude
- Geometric altitude
- Velocity
- Aircraft Operator longitude and latitude
- Aircraft Operator geometric altitude
- A time mark
- An emergency status Indication
Which Drones are REMOTE ID ready?
Skydio, DJI, Flyability, and several other drone companies have been steadily rolling out updates for the drones to make them compliant.
Learn more about drones that are already compliant…
Five Things you need to know about Drone Remote ID
How and Where to buy Remote ID modules
If you have an existing drone, no worries; all you need is to buy a Remote ID module.
Learn more about how and where to buy a Remote ID module
Where is the Remote ID on a drone?
Standard Remote ID: This is still unclear but from what I have gathered, this information will be available on the App from the Drone.
Remote ID Broadcast Module: This information should be available as part of the serial number. E.g., My DroneBeacon remote ID starts with 1787F
