Whether you are a new user or an experienced user, this FAQ will provide you with answers to common questions about FAA Monthly Reporting. If you can't find the answer that you are looking for, email us at [email protected] or give us a call at 319-201-3020 ext. 2.
What is the FAA reporting feature?
AcreConnect™ software offers a monthly Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reporting feature. The feature makes it easier for operators to compile the necessary information required for monthly FAA flight record reports in AcreConnect™.
Why does this matter?
The software reporting feature simplifies the task of compiling necessary information, reducing errors and ensuring operators meet all regulatory requirements. Holders of a Part 137 certificate with drones weighing over 55 pounds must provide monthly reports to the FAA. While operators of drones under 55 pounds are not required to submit monthly reports, they are still required to maintain flight records for up to 12 months.
How does this feature simplify monthly reporting?
The feature uses your existing AcreConnect™ account information and uploaded flight record data from DJI or XAG. With that data, the feature auto-populates the required information and generates it into a single report. Once complete, an Excel file can be exported and sent to the FAA.
Which AcreConnect™ user types will be able to use this feature?
AcreConnect™ paid subscription users will be able to access and utilize this feature.
How does it work?
AcreConnect™ removes the manual process and automates the compiling of the data into an approved FAA report, ready for direct submission. We have step-by-step instructions and a video that can be found on the Knowledge Center.
Does this feature make AcreConnect™ a compliance software program?
No, AcreConnect™ is not a compliance software program, but features like the FAA monthly report make it easier for operators to maintain compliance and save valuable time every month.
Does this feature replace compliance tools such as Drone Logbook?
Compliance reporting software can be time consuming and feel heavy-handed. AcreConnect™ software is designed to provide flexibility and adaptability to meet the individual need of your business. In addition to Work Orders and Application maps, Our Product Usage Reports and FAA report will assist you with some of your compliance needs.
Does this feature replace chemical management tools, such as Chem-Man?
AcreConnect™ offers detailed product usage reports which include an integration with the TELUS® Ag chemical database for accurate label and product reporting but is not currently designed for chemical management.
Does this feature replace drone-specific apps, such as SmartFarm App?
Yes, the FAA requires monthly flight reports to be submitted in a specific data structured report. The SmartFarm application only provides one piece of data required for an FAA report. The data format is not complete without additional inputs. AcreConnect uses the bulk flight activity report from SmartFarm and creates a file in the correct format required by the FAA in just a few clicks.
How do I create a new report?
We have step-by-step instructions and a video that can be found on the Knowledge Center.
What information is required to share with the FAA?
As verified by our Chief Supervisor of Agriculture Operations, the software feature includes all necessary flight record reporting information as required by the FAA. As the FAA changes the required flight record information, the feature will be updated accordingly.
How much time will this feature save me?
Our operators have found the FAA reporting feature has reduced the time by up to 75%. This is based on reports of pilots completing work in under 15 minutes vs 1 hour.
Will the software feature submit the report to the FAA for me? If not, where do I send the report when completed?
AcreConnect™ is designed to allow the operator to review and approve the report and will not send the report on your behalf. As the Part 137 Operating Certificate holder, you need to submit the information directly. You can submit the information to the email address listed in your FAA Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA) reporting requirements section.
Can I create a report on my mobile device?
Yes, however, the report is best viewed on a larger screen like a tablet or desktop computer.
Can I create a report on my tablet?
Yes, but the feature is best suited for desktop computers. The process
of downloading and uploading logs to AcreConnect™ can be more difficult for tablet users.
Does AcreConnect™ help with incident reports?
Yes, the Excel spreadsheet exported from the feature in AcreConnect™ includes an “Incident” tab. The tab includes the necessary reporting information for incident, damage or malfunction records in each column for you to document during that reporting period. If none occurred, you can delete the tab or leave it blank.
Am I required to submit incident reports to the FAA?
Yes. If an incident occurred, it should be documented within that reporting period. This is required for users with drones over and under 55 lbs.
Which user types will be able to utilize this feature?
The feature will be available to admins and pilots with a paid subscription.
I have a free account. Can I access this feature?
No, the feature is only available for paid subscriptions. You can upgrade by navigating to Manage Organization à Subscriptions in your account or by contacting the Customer Success team through the in-app chat bot located in the bottom right corner of the app.
I am a current 30-day free trial user. Can I access this feature?
No, this feature cannot be accessed during your free trial. It is only available with a paid subscription. You can watch our step-by-step video for a preview of the feature in the Knowledge Center.
If I operate drones weighing above 55 lbs., am I required to submit flight records to the FAA?
Yes, as required by your Part 137 license, you are required to submit monthly flight records to the FAA.
If I operate drones weighing under 55 lbs., am I required to submit flight records to the FAA?
No, you are not required to submit monthly flight reports to the FAA. However, as a Part 137 holder, you are required to keep and maintain monthly records. The records required must be kept for at least 12 months and made available for inspection by the FAA upon request. You are also required to keep a record of any incidents experienced.