The FAA has partnered with drone operations software company Kittyhawk to redesign the agency’s B4UFLY mobile app for recreational unmanned aircraft systems (UAS/drone) operators. According to the FAA, the new version, which is scheduled to launch in April 2019, will be aimed at improving user experience. Until the new app is released, the FAA says the old edition will remain available and app data will continue to be updated regularly.
“We want to provide drone pilots with the best tools possible so they fly safely and responsibly,” said FAA Acting Administrator Dan Elwell. “As drone sales increase and our nation’s airspace becomes busier and more complex, it’s vital that we work smarter and partner with the private sector to develop innovative products that advance safety.” Kittyhawk has been an FAA Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) UAS Service Supplier since October 2018.
B4UFLY is available as a free download for both iOS and Android devices. App features currently include a planner mode for future flights, interactive maps with filtering options, TFR display, a flight status indicator (red, orange, or yellow) for current or planned locations with additional information on that status, and links to FAA regulatory information and drone resources. In addition, the agency has a comment form set up for feedback on B4UFly.
