In this 2-part episode of DroneCast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time, host Joe Kearns III speaks with Christopher Robertson, a public safety aviation professional whose career spans law enforcement operations, traditional manned aviation, and unmanned aerial systems. Drawing from this unique background, Chris shares how he has bridged the discipline of conventional aviation with modern UAS applications to transform tactical decision-making in public safety missions—especially in environments where terrain, visibility, and risk limit traditional approaches.

For Part 1 Chris provides firsthand accounts of how drones have reshaped operations in the field, including a SWAT mission where a drone’s noise and visibility were deliberately used as a distraction, allowing officers to safely apprehend a suspect in dense, wooded terrain. He also recounts a high-angle rescue on Grey Rock, where drones delivered critical situational awareness before responders committed to hazardous rope systems over a 300-foot drop.

The conversation further explores training and certification challenges within the drone industry. As a traditional pilot, Chris highlights the stark contrast between manned aviation certification standards and Part 107 drone licensing, raising important questions about skill validation, safety, and preparedness as drones increasingly operate in shared airspace. Throughout the episode, he emphasizes that drones are not replacements for first responders, but force multipliers—tools that reduce uncertainty, improve planning, and ultimately protect lives. This episode is essential listening for law enforcement leaders, search-and-rescue teams, aviation professionals, and agencies building or scaling public safety drone programs.

Stay tuned for Part 2!

What You'll Learn: