Remote ID
This article explains what remote ID is, how it works and why it is important.
What is remote ID?
With software update 2.7, WingtraOne GEN II avails the remote ID feature, which means that the drone emits messages over a wireless channel.
With software update 2.11.1 this also includes the Operator Registration Number (OPRN), which is mandatory for flying in EU countries under C3 Class.
These messages contain the following:
- WingtraOne GEN II serial number
- UAS operator registration number (OPRN)- EU only, read more here (link to KB)
- The position of the remote pilot
- UA class and category
- The following specific WingtraOne GEN II flight information:
- Location
- Altitude
- Speed
- Flight direction
- Timestamp
- Drone status (ground/flight/emergency)
The chart below depicts the flow of emitted information:

How does remote ID work?
The below images illustrate the main principles of the remote ID feature.

As of software update 2.7, remote ID readiness is a part of the pre-flight checklist.

The status of the remote ID can be seen in the WingtraOne status dropdown panel.

Remote ID works on the 2.4 GHz WiFi and sends beacon messages on the 802.11a/b standard. The signal strength is +13 dBm to meet the regulation requirements. A range of several hundred meters is to be expected in open fields.
Why is remote ID important?
Regulations in the US and the EU require users to emit a remote ID signal so that observers can identify a drone and regulators can check if the drone/pilot has permission to fly.
In the US, starting in September of 2023, operators will only be permitted to fly with remote ID-equipped aircraft. Drone manufacturers in the US must be compliant by September 2022. For more information and questions specific to FAA requirements, please refer to FAQ FAA UAV Regulations article.
When registering an aircraft with the FAA in the DroneZone portal there will be a prompt asking for the Remote ID serial number. Gen IIs broadcast FAA remote ID on firmware > V2.7 and the type is standard. For the Remote ID serial number, enter the ANSI/CTA-compliant number
Wingtraone Gen 2:
-
17444 + the 4-digit plane ID on the wing.
WingtraRAY:
-
17445+ the 5-digit plane ID on the wing.

In the EU, starting in January 2024, manufacturers will only be permitted to sell remote ID-equipped aircraft:
- WingtraOne Gen II drones are all equipped with a remote ID system.
- follow these guidelines to register as an operator and comply with Remote ID requirements in the EU"
- WingtraOne Gen I drones are not equipped with a remote ID system. Starting from January of 2024, operators with this type of drones are allowed to fly their drones in the open category A3 only (A3 open category implies the limitations of flights in VLOS, not over people, at a maximum height of 120 m AGL and 150 m away from recreational, commercial, industrial and residential areas).
For more information and questions about EASA requirements, please refer to the FAQ EASA UAV regulations article.