What is the maximum altitude a drone can fly in uncontrolled airspace without special permission?

The maximum altitude a drone can fly in uncontrolled airspace without requiring special permission is 400 feet above ground level (AGL). This regulation is in place to ensure safe operations and to minimize potential conflicts with manned aircraft, which typically operate at higher altitudes. Staying within this limit helps to maintain a clear separation between drone operations and other aviation activities, thus contributing to overall airspace safety.

While the other altitude options provided exceed the permissible limits, flying above 400 feet AGL could put the drone in conflict with other aircraft and violate regulations set by aviation authorities. This altitude rule is part of the broader framework of FAA regulations designed to ensure the safe integration of drones into the national airspace system.