Drone Show Failures: What Can Go Wrong & How to Prevent It

As demand grows, the pressure to scale up quickly can sometimes shift focus away from quality and safety. While advanced software like Drone Show Software offers robust safety features to predict or prevent issues, technology alone isn't enough. Many additional factors—from planning oversights to environmental conditions—can still compromise a show.

A flawless performance depends on meticulous preparation, rigorous testing, and strict adherence to safety protocols. Let’s take a closer look at the most common mistakes that can lead to failures—and how to avoid them.

1. Not Enough Preparation

‍A well-executed drone show doesn’t start in the sky—it starts long before takeoff. Even the most advanced drone fleets can run into trouble without enough preparation. Structured pre-flight procedures and adequate preparation time help prevent last-minute failures that could jeopardize the show.‍

✔ What to do: Develop a detailed preparation timeline, assign clear responsibilities, and ensure every team member understands their role. Have a contingency plan for unexpected issues. Conduct an on-site visit with a drone, set up Wi-Fi and RTK base stations, and check for potential magnetic interference.

2. Not Researching the Launch Location

Failing to assess the environment before the show can result in serious complications. Factors like wind conditions, interference from nearby communication signals, and physical obstacles must be carefully evaluated to avoid mid-show failures.‍

✔ What to do: Visit the site in advance, measure wind speed with an anemometer, check GNSS satellite availability (at least 13 satellites required), inspect the ground surface for hazards by visual inspections and take photos or videos, and ensure proper geofencing is in place.

3. Skipping Testing Before the Show

Testing is the key to spotting technical or operational issues before they become full-blown problems during a live performance. Even minor problems that are left unnoticed may have severe consequences when flying large swarms of drones..

✔ What to do: Use the DSS Blender plug-in and Fleet Simulator for pre-flight animation testing. Conduct takeoff tests to verify positioning and calibrate the compass if needed. Repeat tests until all drones pass without issues.

4. Rushing On-Site Setup

A rushed setup increases the likelihood of critical errors being overlooked. Without proper time for final checks, essential safety measures might be missed, leading to avoidable failures.‍

✔ What to do: Allocate ample setup time. Ensure a well-organized show layout, including designated takeoff zones, restricted staff areas, and secure spectator zones. Perform dry runs of on-site setup on a previous day so that everyone knows what exactly has to be done and how, this way knowing exactly how much time will be needed.

5. Not Conducting a Full Test Run

Even if smaller test flights were conducted earlier, skipping a full-scale rehearsal can result in unexpected failures during the live show.‍

✔ What to do: Start with a rehearsal using 4-6 drones, then conduct a full test under real show conditions. Ensure altitude, distance, and speed limitations are met.

6. Not Double-Checking Safety Aspects

Neglecting safety-critical elements increases the risk of malfunctions or accidents. Even experienced teams can make human errors without a structured safety check.‍

✔ What to do: Assign a dedicated Redbutton operator, measure wind speed accurately, and implement polygon and hard fence settings to minimize risks. Perform a double check of every show-critical safety aspect where a second person is verifying each step.

7. Not Using a Detailed Checklist

A structured checklist is the backbone of a smooth operation. Skipping checklist steps can lead to unexpected issues, from battery failures to GPS connection losses.‍

✔ What to do: Utilize the built-in checklist within Drone Show Software which covers critical safety parameters such as wind speed limits (5-6 m/s max), required GNSS satellites (minimum 13), safety distances, and emergency shutdown procedures. The checklist can also be customized to fit specific project needs.

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The Importance of Training

All these safety measures and best practices are integral to Drone Show Software training, which must be completed before operating the system. Regular training ensures that providers stay updated on industry developments and maintain their qualifications.

By committing to strict safety protocols, continuous learning, and meticulous planning, drone show operators can deliver flawless performances that captivate audiences while ensuring safety for all.

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