Can you fly a drone under 250g over people?
The answer to the question of whether or not you can fly a drone under 250g over people is complicated and ultimately depends on the country or region where the drone is operated. Generally speaking, the law either bans or severely restricts drone operations over people who are not involved in the droneβs operation, as this poses a potential risk of injury or property damage.
In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires all drones weighing more than 0.55 lbs (250g) to be registered with the organization and to adhere to specific safety protocols. The FAA requires that drones flown over people be operated in accordance with the organization's Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Regulations, which have strict rules regarding altitude, distance, and visibility requirements. The regulations also specify that small drones (those weighing less than 0.55lbs, or 250g) may be flown over people only at altitudes of no more than 40 feet, and must remain at least 25 feet away from any individual who is not involved in the operation of the drone. Additionally, the drone must be flown within visual line of sight of the operator or an observer, and must stay within a 400ft area.
Outside of the United States, regulations for drones flown over people differ by country or region. In the United Kingdom, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has implemented strict rules for the operation of drones over people. Small drones weighing less than 250g are allowed to be flown over people only after the CAA has granted permission, and only if the pilot has passed a theory examination. The UK also requires that drones flown over people must remain at least 50 meters away from people, and less than 30 meters of altitude.
In Europe, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has implemented regulations for small drones flown over people, which generally restrict the drone to a height of no more than 10 meters and prohibit the operation of the drone at night or in poor weather. Additionally, the drone must remain at least 20 meters away from people who are not involved in the operation of the drone.
In conclusion, drone operations over people are generally restricted by law. In the United States, the FAA requires that any drone flown over people must adhere to strict safety protocols and be registered if weighing more than 0.55lbs (250g). In the UK and Europe, small drones that weigh less than 250g may be operated over people, but only after special permission is granted and the operator passes an examination. Thus, it is important for drone operators to research their countryβs regulations before operating a drone over people.