The Mountain West Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) group has received a FAA-Recognized Identification Area (FRIA) designation for the Drone Training Park located just off Rodeo Drive in Buena Vista. This designation is expected to improve the training capabilities of the training park.

As explained by UAS enthusiast and champion of the Drone Park Dennis Heap, a FRIA is a defined geographic area where drones can be flown if they don’t have Remote ID equipment.

Both the drone and the pilot must be located within the FRIA’s boundaries throughout the operation. In addition, the pilot of the drone must be able to see it at all times throughout the duration of the flight.

Heap credits Dave Messina and the FPV (First Person View) Freedom Coalition who marshaled the Mountain West UAS application through the process. They are now considered to be what is know as the Community Based Organization and holder of the designation.

The identification number for the FRIA is 2024-CBO-00549-FRIA and expires July 18, 2028.

Remote ID is the ability of a drone in flight to provide identification and location information that can be received by other parties through a broadcast signal, allowing others (and especially officials) to track the drone’s route. Remote ID lays the foundation of the safety and security groundwork needed for more complex drone operations.

Remote ID also helps the FAA, law enforcement, and other federal agencies locate the control station when a drone appears to be flying in an unsafe manner or where it is not allowed to fly.

Drones must comply with Remote ID if they are required to be registered or are registered. This includes those flown for recreation, business, or public safety.

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