


Public and Civil Operations are regulated in a different manner and require special approval from the FAA. The distinction is what the individual is using the aircraft for not what it looks like. The new rules apply to Model Aircraft, which include drones. UAS's fall into three categories: Public Operations (Government), Civil Operations (Non-government), and Model Aircraft (Hobby or recreation only). Third, service members, employees and family members need to report UASs observed near and above military installations, using the Airfield Operations number for the facility in your area. The bottom line: make contact with the installation if you fly a drone within five miles of the base. The control tower supervisor may reiterate the FAA rules to the operator, and may ask them for more information, depending on the area that the individual is flying in, such as, a contact number or for a call when UAS flying is complete. The tower watch supervisor will work with individuals to make sure they are flying in an air traffic friendly area. If you fly a UAS within five miles of any military airfield, you must contact Airfield Operations. Don't be careless or reckless with your unmanned aircraft - you could be fined for endangering people or other aircraft.Don't fly an aircraft that weighs more than 55 lbs.Don't fly within 5 miles of an airport unless you contact the airport and control tower before flying.Remain well clear of and do not interfere with manned aircraft operations.Keep the aircraft within visual line of sight at all times.Fly below 400 feet and remain clear of surrounding obstacles.The FAA strongly urges individuals flying for hobby or recreation to follow safety guidelines, which include: People who do not register could face civil and criminal penalties," according to the FAA. before they fly! "People who previously operated their UAS must register by Feb. 21, 2015, the law requires anyone owning a new UAS weighing between. Knowing the laws and basic safety rules is essential, and helps you avoid stiff legal and civil penalties.įirst, register your drone (called an Unmanned Aircraft System by the FAA).Īs of Dec. The FAA has stated that unmanned aircraft systems are aircraft, not toys, making operators subject to aviation laws and guidelines.

Federal Aviation Administration statistics show a surge in "close call with drone" reports by military and civilian pilots: nearly 700 incidents in 2015, roughly triple the amount recorded in 2014. With sales of drones expected to approach 700,000 this season, near-misses with military and commercial aircraft have increased.
