What You Need to Know Before Taking Photos Over Airports with a Drone

When it comes to taking photos with a drone over airports or other restricted airspace, there are certain considerations that must be taken into account. It is essential for drone operators to understand the types of airspace and the restrictions that are in place to protect national security. For flights near airports in uncontrolled airspace that remain less than 400 feet above the ground, no prior authorization is required. However, it is important to note that the drone operator is responsible for any safety hazards that their drone generates in an airport environment.

To fly close to airports in controlled airspace, drone operators must receive an airspace authorization before operating. In addition, it is important to have someone monitoring the drone and scanning the surrounding airspace for any potential conflicts. This person does not need to be an expert, but they should have an overview of the types of airspace and the restrictions in place. The Fourth Amendment and zoning laws can help define the rights of landowners in the airspace above their land.

DJI geofencing will be used at airports, as well as class B airports, with a slightly smaller restricted area around the runways. Class A is airspace between 18,000 feet (average sea level) and FL (flight level) 600 inclusive, including airspace that covers waters within a radius of 12 nautical miles off the coast of the 48 neighboring states and Alaska. Class C and D airports also have FAA network blocks within 5 to 7 miles around them. It is important to note that drones can operate in this space to take pictures or perform surveillance tasks.

However, these tests should be suppressed under the general restrictions on use found in several proposals that circulate in state legislatures, Congress and under the ACLU's “secondary police purposes” rule. To preserve the right of transit for an Amazon or Google delivery drone, a mapping and real estate drone, or an aircraft model, the right of exclusion cannot be extended to the navigable airspace line (500 feet in most places, 1000 feet in congested areas). Overall, it is essential for drone operators to understand all of the restrictions and regulations when taking photos over airports or other restricted airspace with a drone. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your flight is safe and compliant with all applicable laws.