> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.flitegrid.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.flitegrid.io/the-network/how-flitegrid-works.md).

# How FliteGrid Works

FliteGrid is a sensor network that collects drone tracking data and feeds it into SkySafe's enterprise platform. Here's how the pieces fit together.

## The Data Flow

The system works in four stages:

**1. Drones broadcast Remote ID.** Every drone operating in the US is required by FAA regulation to broadcast Remote ID data during flight. This includes the drone's identity, location, altitude, speed, takeoff location, and pilot location. These broadcasts happen over Bluetooth and Wi-Fi on standardized protocols.

**2. FliteGrid sensors receive the broadcasts.** Each FliteGrid sensor is a compact, purpose-built device deployed with a clear view of the sky. The sensor runs SkySafe's validated receiver software, which can decode all Remote ID protocol variants (Bluetooth 4 Legacy, Bluetooth 5 Long Range, Wi-Fi Beacon, and Wi-Fi NAN). When a drone flies within range, the sensor captures its Remote ID transmissions in real time, validates the data, and encrypts it.

**3. Data is uploaded to SkySafe's cloud platform.** Each sensor has built-in LTE connectivity and continuously streams its captured data to SkySafe's cloud infrastructure. The platform processes incoming data from all sensors across the network, fuses overlapping coverage, validates data integrity, and builds a unified real-time picture of drone activity.

**4. Customers access the data.** Government agencies, law enforcement, airport operators, critical infrastructure managers, and other enterprise customers access the processed data through SkySafe's platform. They use it for real-time monitoring, historical analysis, threat detection, compliance verification, and operational planning.

## The Hosting Model

FliteGrid sensors are owned, produced, and maintained by SkySafe. Deployers host them.

When you claim a hex, you pay a $100 fully refundable deposit and SkySafe ships you a sensor. You mount it, power it, and keep it online. In exchange, you're paid $50 per month for coverage in an eligible hex. SkySafe handles firmware, connectivity, monitoring, and hardware replacement if a unit fails.

This division of labor is deliberate. Covering the national airspace requires sensors in thousands of specific locations, and no centralized deployment team can negotiate access to that many rooftops efficiently. People who already live and work in the right places can. SkySafe brings the hardware, the technology, and the customers. Deployers bring the locations.

The payments are funded by real revenue. SkySafe has been selling drone tracking data and airspace intelligence to government and enterprise customers for years, and generates millions in annual revenue doing it. FliteGrid data feeds the same platform those customers already pay for. A hex is eligible for payment because coverage there makes the product more valuable, not because a future business model might someday materialize.

## The H3 Hex Grid

FliteGrid maps the country using Uber's open-source H3 hexagonal grid system at resolution 8. Each hex covers roughly 0.7 square kilometers, which corresponds closely to the practical reception range of a well-placed Remote ID sensor. One sensor per hex, one deployer per hex.

Hexes covering valuable airspace (airports, military installations, correctional facilities, stadiums, critical infrastructure, border zones, and similar locations) are eligible for monthly payment. The coverage map shows which hexes are eligible and which are still open to claim.

For more detail, see [Coverage & Hex Values](/the-network/coverage-and-hex-values.md).

## Sensor Architecture

FliteGrid sensors are purpose-built devices produced by SkySafe. Each sensor includes:

* Multi-protocol Remote ID receiver (Bluetooth 4, Bluetooth 5, Wi-Fi Beacon, Wi-Fi NAN)
* GPS module for proof-of-location verification
* Secure hardware with validated encryption keys
* Built-in LTE connectivity (no home internet connection required)
* Compact, weatherproof enclosure with mounting hardware

The sensors are designed to be deployed by anyone. No technical expertise is required. Mount it, power it, activate it on your FliteGrid account, and it starts collecting data.

For deployment details, see [Deploy Your Sensor](/host-a-sensor/deploy-your-sensor.md).

## Network Phases

**Phase 1: Hex Claiming (live now)** The coverage map is open. Deployers claim eligible hexes on a first-come, first-served basis and reserve their spot in the network.

**Phase 2: Deployment (2026)** Sensors ship to deployers with claimed hexes. As sensors come online, the network begins collecting data, deployers begin earning, and FliteGrid coverage starts feeding SkySafe's platform.

**Phase 3: Expansion** More eligible hexes as customer demand grows, additional sensor types, and international expansion to markets where Remote ID regulations are also in effect.