A new Recreational / Hobbyist UAS pilot reported they flew within controlled airspace on several occasions because they were unaware of the FAA rules and regulations.

Narrative

Event DescriptionWho: I am a new drone pilot who recently purchased a DJI Mini 4.What: I unintentionally flew into Class B airspace multiple times due to a lack of knowledge about airspace regulations and misinterpreted warnings from the drone's remote control.Where: The incidents occurred near a park; which is close to an airport in ZZZ.When: These flights took place over a two-week period after purchasing the drone.Why: My primary motivation for flying was to find a way to relax while managing ongoing medical conditions. However; my limited understanding of drone regulations and the stress from my health issues contributed to my decision to fly without realizing the risks involved.Key Issues and Preventative MeasuresLack of Knowledge: As a new pilot; I underestimated the complexities of airspace regulations; particularly the importance of adhering to restrictions in Class B airspace. Many new pilots are not fully aware of the specific rules and regulations that govern safe drone operation.Misinterpretation of Alerts: The prompt to 'fly with caution' from the drone's remote controller was misleading; as I mistakenly believed it permitted me to operate in restricted areas. This highlights the need for better education on interpreting drone alerts and warnings.Heightened Anxiety: My ongoing medical issues contributed to increased stress and difficulty concentrating; which affected my ability to absorb critical information regarding drone operations.Communication Systems and SoftwareCommunication Frequencies: The drone typically operates on 2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz frequencies for remote communication. These frequencies are common for consumer drones and are crucial for maintaining a stable connection between the drone and the remote control.Software Versions: It's essential to keep drone software up to date to ensure optimal performance and compliance with regulations. My drone was running the latest firmware at the time of the incidents; but my understanding of operational guidelines was lacking.ConclusionThis experience has highlighted the importance of understanding drone regulations and the potential consequences of misinterpretation. While I have returned my drone and decided not to fly again; I believe it's crucial for new pilots to engage in thorough education and training. This will help prevent similar situations in the future. For more information on airspace regulations and drone operations; I recommend visiting the FAA's official website.