From the U.S. Government Accountability Office, www.gao.gov

Transcript for: Aviation Safety: Federal Efforts to Address Unauthorized
Drone Flights Near Airports

Description: Generally, recreational and commercial drone operators can
fly in uncontrolled airspace under 400 feet, as long as they meet
certain requirements. However, they cannot operate in most controlled
airspace without FAA authorization. According to FAA officials, many
airports are located in controlled airspace, meaning that drones require
FAA authorization in order to operate in that space. Regardless,
operators are expressly prohibited from operating in a manner that
interferes with airport operations and traffic patterns. According to
FAA officials, this prohibition is because of concerns that small drone
operations could present a hazard to other aircraft operating at low
altitudes.

Related GAO Works: GAO-24-107195, Aviation Safety: Federal Efforts to
Address Unauthorized Drone Flights Near Airports

Released: April 2024


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Unmanned aircraft, often called drones, are used for recreational and
commercial purposes.   
 
The number of drones in the U.S. airspace is increasing, which is a
concern for airports. 

Unauthorized drones flying near airports pose a safety risk to aircraft,
and disrupt air-traffic-control operations. 

Local law enforcement responds to these incidents, with assistance from
the federal government if needed. 

Drone detection and counter-drone technologies have been used for many
years in the national defense environment. 

We recommended that Congress, where appropriate, change laws on the use
of these technologies at airports.

Find Out More at GAO.gov.

Image Credits: Adobe Stock - Mari X, EVG, Artur Kutskyi, PC-9, makst
 
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For more info, check out our report GAO-24-107195 at: GAO.gov