Recreational / Hobbyist UAS reported completing their first UAS flight during windy conditions and flying close to other UAS in the area due to the wind. After their flight they witnessed another UAS crash.
Synopsis
Recreational / Hobbyist UAS reported completing their first UAS flight during windy conditions and flying close to other UAS in the area due to the wind. After their flight they witnessed another UAS crash.
Narrative
While flying a UAS for the 1st time at a Conference; I experienced some learning opportunities.The drone test area was a golf driving range; which is about the size of a pool and surrounded by a net that goes about 10-12 ft. above the ground and on all sides. As Winney the Pooh would say; it was quite a blustery day. The wind speed were noticeable and able to shake the tops of trees. The nets dampened some of the wind; and allowed most through.There were several times when I didn't notice or expect the wind to affect the drone; or I was operating the UAS at a bit too of an aggressive speed and got close to the netting of the range. There were also times when I got near the other drone that was flying in the other quadrant of the range. Testing the UAS out and then coming near to another one being flown came as a surprise to me; which I think speaks to me being caught up in the excitement of flying. After I landed the UAS I was flying and observed another user experimenting; they were caught off guard by the wind and blew into the net; breaking a propeller; and grounding the UAS. There were experienced spotters that were watching the users try out the drones; and warning us if we were at a high speed or a dangerous position. I don't believe there was a debrief of the pilot after the crash.
Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.