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

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.