FAA Grants Drone Visual Line of Sight Waiver To Grand Forks Fire Department

GRAND FORKS, N.D. (KVRR) — Grand Forks Fire Department is granted an FAA waiver to fly drones beyond the visual line of sight in emergency situations.

It will allow them to be able to assess large fires, conduct aerial searches and help locate missing people in challenging environments.

Fire Chief Gary Lorenz says the waiver enhances their situational awareness and increases safety for the firefighters.

Northern Plains UAS Test Site helped the department get the waiver.

They assisted in training 11 first responders in UAS operations and flight protocols.

The waiver took effect on July 19.

“This approval is a significant milestone. For years, I’ve shared a vision with GFFD on how impactful UAS can be in emergency situations for the citizens of Grand Forks,” said Erin Roesler, Deputy Executive Director of NPUASTS. “Having worked with Chief Lorenz for over five years now, it’s a wonderful capability to bring to the GFFD. The people of Grand Forks should be proud of how dedicated these firefighters are in continuing to enhance the ways they serve the city.”