According to a new report from the NPD Group, the demand for drones is increasing. US dollar sales of drones more than doubled (by 117 percent) in the 12 months ending February 2017. Premium drones, which are those that retail for more than $300, were the main reason behind the revenue growth. They generated 84 percent of dollar sales and almost 40 percent of unit sales during the first two months of this year.

Drones priced at $1,000 and more were the fastest selling in the first two months of 2017, followed by those in the $300 to $500 price range. The data also shows that consumers are very interested in premium features these flying devices can offer. Drones priced between $300 and $500 with autopilot capabilities sold almost five times faster than those without this functionality. The so-called “follow me” mode, which allows the drone to follow and record you from the air, is even more in demand. Devices with this feature actually sold 19 times faster than the ones without it.

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Although premium drones were the biggest money makers, sales of drones in the $50 to $100 price range significantly increased during the holiday season. They were more widely available at retailers across the country, which helped them to account for 42 percent of unit sales during the three months ending December 2016.

Based on this data, it is clear that the demand for drones in the US is on the rise. Especially for those that offer advanced features like the already mentioned autopilot or “follow me” mode, which can help you create better content.

It is interesting that sales have doubled over the last year, especially when you consider that there are a bunch of rules and regulations regarding where you can and can’t fly drones in the country. If those didn’t exist, the numbers would probably be a lot higher than they are right now.

Things to know before you fly

• You must register your drone with the FAA before you fly
• You must affix your drone registration number to your craft
• Coming soon: The FAA will require you to pass a test before you fly your drone
• You must acquire your Part 107 certificate if you are to receive any compensation for your flight
• You must follow all of the FAA’s airspace rules if you are flying outdoors
• Hobby flights have different requirements from commercial flights
• In the eye’s of the FAA, drones are aircraft. Period.
• You need to acquire authorization to fly in controlled airspace

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