Flying Lion, a leader in deploying drones as first responders, has announced that it has completed over 55,000 Drone As A First Responder (DFR) flights, marking a significant milestone in the realm of public safety and emergency response technology. Since their inception of the DFR program with the Chula Vista Police Department in 2018, Flying Lion has expanded its operations across California and the United States, working with more than 30 law enforcement agencies nationwide.
The DFR concept involves deploying drones to emergency scenes rapidly to provide real-time imaging and situational awareness before officers or emergency responders arrive. This approach aims to enhance safety for community members, police officers, and even suspects, as drones can often provide critical information more quickly and with reduced risk than traditional methods.
By the end of 2024, Flying Lion completed a total of 55,773 DFR flights. Impressively, out of these, over 35,000 flights were conducted beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS), a complex operational feat made possible by evolving Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. These regulations are now accommodating more advanced drone operations, including BVLOS and the capacity for operators to pilot multiple unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) simultaneously. This regulatory support has fueled the rapid expansion of DFR programs nationwide.
Barry Brennan, Flying Lion President and Founder, remarked on the growth potential of these programs, predicting a significant rise in their adoption. “We expect DFR programs will more than double in 2025,” Brennan stated. He highlighted the role of these programs in enhancing safety measures and response efficiency, asserting, “These DFR programs are keeping community members, first responders, and even suspects safer every day.”
Flying Lion’s offerings extend beyond equipment and training to include operational staffing. The company supplies remote pilots and support staff, ensuring comprehensive operational coverage for law enforcement agencies. Moreover, their services are adaptable; Flying Lion can provide on-demand drone support for large events or emergencies, leveraging their custom response van designed for 24/7 drone operations.
The use of drones in public safety is becoming increasingly common, with many agencies viewing them as essential tools. As technology continues to advance and regulatory frameworks adjust to meet these innovations, DFR programs are poised for global growth. Drones provide law enforcement agencies with unprecedented capabilities, transforming how incidents are monitored and managed.
With the anticipated expansion and enhancement of DFR programs, Flying Lion is positioned to remain at the forefront of this transformative wave in public safety. As these developments unfold, communities may increasingly notice drones as integral elements of their local law enforcement’s toolkit, bolstering the efficacy and safety of emergency responses.
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