Safety and Regulations

SAFETY Guidelines for Unmanned Aerial Systems

The following safety guidelines are taken from the Federal Aviation Administration website www.faa.gov/uas

Basic Rules listed below are followed by all flyers of remote controlled aircraft and Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS). They are part of an education campaign founded by the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) and the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) in partnership with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to educate prospective users about the safe and responsible operation of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).

http://knowbeforeyoufly.org/

The link above teaches new flyers to fly safely, but many don’t realize that just because you can buy a UAS, doesn’t mean you can fly it anywhere, or for any purpose. Know Before You Fly provides prospective flyers with the information and guidance they need to fly safely and responsibly.

There are three different users of Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS). Recreational, Public, and Commercial. Regardless of the user, they all fly by the same Basic Rules

Basic or Recreational Rules

• Register your aircraft
• Fly no higher than 400 feet and remain below any surrounding obstacles when possible.
• Keep your UAS in eyesight at all times, and use an observer to assist if needed.
• Remain well clear of and do not interfere with manned aircraft operations, and you must see and avoid other aircraft and obstacles at all times.
• Do not intentionally fly over unprotected persons or moving vehicles, and remain at least 25 feet away from individuals and vulnerable property.
• Contact the airport and control tower before flying within five miles of an airport or heliport.
• Do not fly in adverse weather conditions such as in high winds or reduced visibility.
• Do not fly under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Ensure the operating environment is safe and that the operator is competent and proficient in the operation of the sUAS.
• Do not fly near or over sensitive infrastructure or property such as power stations, water treatment facilities, correctional facilities, heavily traveled roadways, government facilities, etc.
• Check and follow all local laws and ordinances before flying over private property.
• Do not conduct surveillance or photograph persons in areas where there is an expectation of privacy without the individual’s permission