What is the recommended distance to maintain from airports when flying a drone?

Maintaining a distance of at least 5 miles from an airport when flying a drone is essential for ensuring the safety and efficiency of manned aircraft operations. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has established this distance as a guideline to minimize the risk of drone encounters with other aircraft, particularly during takeoff and landing phases, when planes are closest to the ground and often at their most vulnerable.

Drones operating within controlled airspace are subject to additional regulations, and operating within 5 miles without obtaining prior authorization from the relevant air traffic control facility could lead to serious safety hazards. This distance also allows for adequate separation, enabling pilots of both drones and manned aircraft to observe and react to each other’s presence.

Understanding these safety protocols is crucial for responsible drone operation and compliance with aviation regulations.