Flying Lion Launches FLI Town, A Revolutionary Drone Training Center for First Responders

Flying Lion, Inc., a prominent provider in the drone service sector, has made a groundbreaking move by launching FLI Town, the first training center in the United States specifically designed for Drone as First Responder (DFR) operations. Situated in the remote area of Eagle Mountain, California, this innovative facility serves as a secure, controlled environment where public safety agencies can effectively train, test, and enhance their drone-related capabilities.

The Importance of Dedicated Training Facilities

As drones increasingly become an integral component of public safety, FLI Town fills a critical gap in the existing training landscape. The facility is not only a venue for training but also a collaborative space for different agencies to come together, share knowledge, and fine-tune their DFR strategies. Agencies can engage in various operational scenarios at FLI Town, harnessing over 20 potential training programs that are either Flying Lion-hosted or vendor-led.

The training elements are grounded in real-world applications, ensuring that operators are not only learning in a theoretical vacuum but are fully prepared for live operations. Barry Brennan, the President and Founder of Flying Lion, emphasizes the importance of providing a safe location for remote operators to train, which can significantly enhance the effectiveness of emergency responses.

Advanced Training Techniques and Technologies

FLI Town's unique offerings include 24/7 remote training capabilities, thanks to a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) waiver allowing operations beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) up to 400 feet above ground level. This means that traning can be conducted from anywhere with an internet connection—an unprecedented advancement that addresses the logistical challenges of traditional drone training.

The center is not merely a training space; it doubles as an extreme testing environment for uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) technologies. The challenges posed by the California Colorado Desert—high temperatures exceeding 110°F, minimal rainfall, and abundant sunshine—make it an ideal site for assessing equipment durability and performance under rigorous conditions.

Collaborations Foster Innovation

FLI Town’s vendor-agnostic approach distinguishes it within the industry. It enables agencies to work with various UAS technologies, thereby encouraging the exploration and integration of the latest innovations in drone capabilities. Many esteemed industry partners are collaborating with Flying Lion to support FLI Town’s initiatives. These include organizations involved in sensor technology, hardware solutions, and communications, among others. Such collaborations enable training programs to leverage the finest resources within the UAS ecosystem.

A New Era for Drone Operations

The launch of FLI Town marks a significant step forward in the evolution of drone applications in public safety. For law enforcement and emergency responders, having access to a specialized facility dedicated to DFR operations is invaluable. As Chief Charles Werner of DRONERESPONDERS reflects, “Having a dedicated, private location for realistic DFR training with minimal risks is simply irreplaceable.”

About Flying Lion

Founded in 2014, Flying Lion has established itself as a leader in drone services tailored for public safety and law enforcement agencies. With a robust track record of completing more than 59,400 DFR missions, including 37,725+ beyond visual line of sight, the company is committed to advancing the efficiencies and capabilities of drone technology in life-saving scenarios.

Conclusion

In summary, FLI Town is not just breaking new ground for drone training but also fostering an interconnected community of public safety professionals engaged in a shared mission. Through innovative training methods, rigorous testing environments, and strong partnerships, Flying Lion is paving the way for the next generation of drone assistance in emergency response scenarios. For more information, visit flyinglioninc.com.