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 drone’s 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 country’s regulations before operating a drone over people.

Was this article useful? 👍 0 👎 0 👀 3 Rating: Posted by: 👨 Robert R. Dinh

Add new comment/question

Comments / Question

👤 💬

What are the consequences of flying a drone under 250g over people without the necessary permissions?

👨 📜

The consequences of flying a drone under 250g over people without the necessary permissions can vary depending on the country or region. In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has established regulations that prohibit the operation of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) over people without the necessary permissions. Violations of these regulations can result in civil penalties of up to $27,500 per violation. Additionally, depending on the circumstances, criminal charges may also be brought against the operator.

👤 💬

Are there any special permissions required to fly a drone under 250g over people?

👨 📜

Yes, in most countries, you must be a certified drone pilot and obtain a special permission from the relevant aviation authority to fly a drone over people. For example, in the United States, you must obtain a waiver from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

👤 💬

Are there any restrictions on where a drone under 250g can be flown over people?

👨 📜

Yes. Drones under 250g must be flown a minimum of 30m away from people, unless permission has been granted by those people. Additionally, drones must not be flown within 50m of buildings or people, or within the grounds of a school, except by request and permission from the school. Finally, drones should not be flown over crowds of people or near emergency situations.

👤 💬

Are there any safety considerations to take into account when flying a drone under 250g over people?

👨 📜

Yes, there are several safety considerations to take into account when flying a drone under 250g over people. It is important to ensure that the drone is operated in a safe manner and that the operator is aware of their surroundings. The drone should be flown at least 30 meters away from people and buildings, and the operator should be aware of any potential hazards that could cause injury or damage. Additionally, the drone should not be flown over crowds or in areas with a high concentration of people. Finally, the operator should be aware of any local laws or regulations regarding the use of drones in their area.

👤 💬

What are the regulations for flying a drone under 250g over people?

👨 📜

If you are flying a drone that weighs less than 250g in the United States, it must be flown in accordance with Part 107 of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. This includes staying at least 25 feet away from people and never flying over them. Additionally, drones must always remain within the visual line of sight of the operator, meaning the pilot must be able to see the aircraft with their own eyes (rather than through a first-person view device).