Restricted Airspace, Unrestricted Innovation: Drone Ops in DC's Shadow with Jason Cokinos
Dronecast: Rethinking Public Safety, One Drone at a Time · 2025-06-10 · 26 min
Episode notes
In this compelling DroneCast episode, Joe Kearns dives deep with Montgomery County’s Jason Cokinos to uncover the operational complexities of integrating drone technology within restricted airspace near Washington DC. Montgomery County Police Department, serving over 1.1 million residents, faces unique challenges without traditional air support, prompting them to innovate with drone-first response strategies. Jason shares how they cultivated strong federal stakeholder relationships to secure approval and support, transitioned away from Chinese-made drones for security reasons, and developed scenario-based training to prepare operators for real-world situations. The conversation highlights how sustainable drone programs rely on reliable internet infrastructure, standardized safety checklists, and cross-agency collaboration between police and fire departments. Looking forward, Jason and Joe discuss emerging opportunities for tactical drone deliveries and the continued evolution of drone operations in public safety.