What is a primary risk associated with flying a drone at excessive altitudes?

Flying a drone at excessive altitudes carries the primary risk of entering controlled airspace without proper authorization. Controlled airspace is designated for the safety of manned aircraft, and drones that operate too high can inadvertently breach these airspace boundaries. This could lead to dangerous encounters with aircraft, which are typically flying at higher altitudes. It is essential for drone pilots to understand and adhere to altitude limits in order to navigate safely and legally within airspace regulations.

While reduced battery life, issues with GPS signal strength, and other factors may affect drone performance, they are not as critical as the legal and safety implications of unauthorized entry into controlled airspace. Understanding airspace classifications and flying within legal limits is crucial for all drone operators to avoid these risks.