Spring has arrived and drones are back in the sky. Before you launch, it’s important to make sure you’re operating within the law.
Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), or drones, have become increasingly common in recent years. What many people don’t realize is that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) classifies drones as aircraft regardless of size. Because of this, flying a drone outdoors comes with specific rules, which vary based on the drone’s weight and how it is used.
To start, the FAA separates drones by weight. Aircraft under 55 pounds are categorized as small UAS (sUAS), while those weighing 55 pounds or more fall into a separate “heavy drone” category. These larger systems are often used in agriculture for tasks like applying pesticides or seeding. This article focuses on the requirements for sUAS.
Within the sUAS category, regulations also depend on how the drone is used. Recreational flights are those conducted purely for enjoyment. However, if the drone is used in a way that provides value to property or service, whether or not money changes hands, it is considered commercial. Even posting drone photos or videos online can qualify as commercial use under FAA guidelines.
- Do You Possess a Remote Pilot Certification?
One of the most common questions is whether a license is required. In many cases, the answer is yes. A Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (often called a drone license) is required for commercial operations. Earning this certification involves passing a 60-question FAA knowledge exam. Recreational pilots, while not needing a Part 107 certificate, must complete a free online safety course known as TRUST (The Recreational UAS Safety Test).
- Is Your Drone Registered with the FAA?
Registration requirements depend on both weight and use. Any drone weighing more than 0.55 pounds and less than 55 pounds must be registered, regardless of purpose. Additionally, all drones used for commercial purposes must be registered, even if they weigh less than 0.55 pounds. Registration can be completed through the FAA’s Drone Zone for sUAS.
- Does Your Drone Have Remote Identification (Remote ID)
Remote ID is a broadcast signal from the drone that shares information such as the drone’s location, altitude and identification during flight. As of September 2023, most drones operating outdoors must be equipped with Remote ID. Newer models typically include this feature, while older drones may require a firmware update. Check the UAS Declaration of Compliance to determine if your drone meets FAA Remote ID Requirements.
- Will You Need Airspace Authorization Near Airports?
Flying near certain airports may require approval. While many smaller Nebraska airports do not require authorization, 14 Nebraska airports, including Lincoln, Omaha and Grand Island, require pre-authorization by Air Traffic Contral (ATC). Pilots can request access from ATC through the FAA’s LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) system. This requirement applies to both recreational and commercial operators. Pilots may reference the FAA UAS Facility Maps to determine which airports require ATC authorization.
5. Have You Checked the TFRs, NOTAMs, and GPS Notices?
Before every drone flight, check current airspace conditions to stay safe and legal. Review NOTAMs (Notices to Air Missions) for hazards like construction, outages, or unusual aircraft activity, and check TFRs (Temporary Flight Restrictions) for no-fly areas such as wildfires, VIP travel, or major events by visiting 1800wxbrief.com. (Also, remember to review GPS interference alerts through GPS.gov), as signal disruptions can affect drone stability and navigation. A quick pre-flight check helps prevent violations and ensures safer operation.
Finally, remember these important drone safety tips:
- Before takeoff, perform a thorough inspection to ensure all drone components are functioning properly and that batteries are fully charged and in good condition.
- During flight, continuously monitor your surroundings and maintain a safe distance from obstacles, including power lines and always yield the right-of-way to manned aircraft, and be prepared to descend or move away immediately if one is nearby.
- Stay aware of your environment, including wildlife and changing weather conditions that could impact flight safety.
- Lastly, be mindful of your own physical and mental state and avoid operating a drone if you are feeling exhausted, stressed, or ill, as this can impair judgment and reaction time.
For more details on FAA drone regulations, visit the FAA Drone Zone. To stay informed about agricultural drone education from Nebraska Extension, subscribe to UNL’s CropWatch or contact Dirk Charlson, 402-460-0742 (call or text).
