Frequently Asked Questions
Can you fly in all weather conditions?
For all flight types, sustained high speed wind or gusty conditions can warrant a rescheduling. The drone is also not able to operate in rain or snow. For mapping flights, a flight window with either full sun or full clouds around mid day will be required (this ensures the lighting is consistent, which makes the maps more accurate).
How do you deal with weather delays?
At booking for a rental or service, we will request multiple days or a range of days for contingency planning. Rescheduling is made at the discretion of the pilot to ensure first and foremost a safe flight and also that the images produced are at their best quality. Rebooking for weather-related reasons comes at no charge.
Can you fly at night?
There are options available if getting nighttime footage is an important part of your project.
Flying at night requires a waiver from the Federal Aviation Administration. Waivers are approved or denied within 90 days of the request (usually sooner). If the waiver is denied, we will be unable to perform the flight.
Is it legal to fly here?
When we schedule your flight, we will ensure the area of interest is within legal airspace and will apply for any necessary waivers or authorizations if it is not.
We also take the time to notify and answer questions from neighbors or other landowners that may be concerned about their own privacy.
It is legal to fly above most private properties, regardless of ownership, up to 400 ft above ground level. There are some restrictions near airports and public lands (policy can vary between city, county, state, and federal). We are also unable to fly over unassociated people or vehicles without consent.
My project doesn't fit any of the examples on your website. Is that okay?
Of course! We always do a consultation before a project begins to evaluate the flight location and get an idea of the expectations for the project. We love a challenge and will happily work with you to develop a gameplan for unique situations. If it is outside of the scope we can work in, we'll let you know that too!
What is a Chinook?
Our namesake comes from the Chinook winds that blow over the Rocky Mountains.
These winds carry moisture all the way from the Pacific coast to drop snow and rain on the western slope of the Rockies. Depleted of their moisture, they carry hot, dry air down the eastern slope to the plains. It's a blessing and a curse!
Usually pronounced SHin-ook, but the alternative of CHin-ook is also commonly used.