At the freeski slopestyle competition during the Winter Olympics, Canadian athlete Megan Oldham secured an Olympic bronze medal on her final run as a drone closely followed her, providing a unique viewing angle introduced by the Olympic Broadcasting Services. These first-person view (FPV) drones are capable of high-speed maneuvers, matching the athletes’ movements on the slopes, jumps, and ice with precision.
While drones have been used in the Olympics since 2014, the FPV drones are a recent addition, garnering attention for their ability to reach speeds of up to 75 km/h and navigate complex terrains such as alpine slopes and luge tracks. Operated by pilots using controllers and headsets, these drones have become a highlight of the event.
CBC’s chief drone pilot, Trevor Lyons, emphasized the immersive experience these drones offer viewers, bringing them up close to the action and providing a detailed perspective of the athletes’ speed and challenges. Extensive preparation and simulation work were undertaken to ensure seamless drone coverage throughout the competition.
Despite the positive reception, the drone usage has faced some criticism, particularly regarding the noise generated by the drone blades during broadcasts. Athletes have also shared mixed reactions, with some expressing concerns about the proximity of the drones during their performances. However, overall, the consensus is that the drone footage adds value to the Olympic experience, albeit requiring some adjustment for viewers accustomed to traditional coverage methods.
