Action News Jax Skyvision: Drone use for news coverage brings added responsibility

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Drones can provide amazing video and a vantage point that would not otherwise be available. Now, drones are part of Action News Jax coverage, like video we showed you last month of severe flooding in South Carolina.

Action News Jax is the first local television station to receive Federal Aviation Administration approval to use drones to help bring our viewers important stories from across our area.

It took a year's worth of planning and safety considerations. We are on the cutting edge, helping the FAA establish the guidelines that someday, other media companies will use.
      
We are the only local station allowed by the government to operate an unmanned aerial system: Action News Jax Skyvision.

All of our drone flights will comply with state and federal laws and operate at a safe altitude that means less than 200 feet. Every time, Skyvision leaves the ground, it is being operated by a licensed pilot.

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It's light, nimble, and can take us to from the ground to the skies in seconds. Skyvision gives us unique perspective for news coverage, from local weather forecasting and traffic to breaking news.
      
Drone technology like this can take rescuers inside a collapsed building. In severe weather, these unmanned systems are an important tool in forecasting and warning you at home to the danger.
 
"We can use our drone to help with forecasting here across Northeast Florida and Southeastern Georgia, and assess things that are happening in real time and post storm."

But this added coverage comes with responsibility.

"Safety is the biggest concern with these. It is an actual, real aircraft. It is not a toy. None of them are actually toys," said licensed pilot Chris Fanning, who has more than 25 years' experience.

All of our Action News Jax Skyvision flights will happen away from airports, military bases and crowds. We also won't be flying into your backyard. With privacy in mind, our drone will fly over public space unless a property owner gives us permission.

This eagle's eye approach to our news coverage is a first in Jacksonville.

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