FAQ: Flying Near Airports and Airspace

FAQ: Flying Near Airports and Airspace

For New Drone Pilots

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1. Can I fly my drone near an airport? No, you cannot fly your drone near airports without proper authorization. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) enforces a Flight Restriction Zone (FRZ) around airports to ensure safety.

• The FRZ typically includes:
• A circular zone with a radius of 2.5 nautical miles centered on the airport.
• An extended rectangular zone along the runway approach paths (up to 5 kilometers).

To fly in an FRZ, you must obtain permission from the airport operator and ensure compliance with CAA regulations. Reference: UK Air Navigation Order (ANO) 2016, Article 94A.

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2. How do I know if I’m in restricted airspace? Use the CAA's official Drone Assist app to check for restricted or controlled airspace. The app provides an interactive map showing FRZs, danger areas, and other airspace restrictions across the UK.

• Steps to check airspace restrictions:

1. Download the Drone Assist app (available on iOS and Android). 2. Enter your intended flight location. 3. Review highlighted areas for restrictions. Remember, it’s your responsibility to confirm airspace restrictions before flying. Reference: CAP 722: Unmanned Aircraft System Operations in UK Airspace – Guidance.

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3. What is the maximum altitude I can fly my drone? You must not fly your drone higher than 120 meters (400 feet) above ground level unless you have special permission from the CAA. Flying higher than this limit can interfere with manned aircraft operations, especially near airports. Reference: UK Regulation (EU) 2019/947, Article 4.

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4. What happens if I accidentally fly into restricted airspace? Flying into restricted airspace without authorization is illegal and can result in severe penalties.

• Potential consequences:
• Fines of up to £2,500.
• Prosecution for endangering aircraft safety.
• Possible loss of your drone license or operational authorization.

If you realize you’ve entered restricted airspace, land your drone immediately and contact the CAA or local authorities. Reference: UK Air Navigation Order (ANO) 2016, Article 94 and Article 94A.

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5. What is an FRZ, and why is it important? An FRZ (Flight Restriction Zone) is an area around an airport where drone operations are restricted to protect aircraft and passengers. Key details:

• FRZs typically extend 2.5 nautical miles from the airport and include 5 km runway protection zones.
• Flying in an FRZ requires permission from the airport operator.

The FRZ ensures drones do not interfere with manned aircraft during takeoff and landing, which are critical phases of flight. Reference: CAP 722: Unmanned Aircraft System Operations in UK Airspace – Guidance.

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For Active Pilots

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6. How can I request permission to fly in an airport’s Flight Restriction Zone (FRZ)? To fly in an FRZ, you must contact the airport operator directly and provide details of your intended operation. Steps to request permission:

1. Identify the airport operator via the Drone Assist app or CAA website.
2. Submit your flight plan, including:
   • Date and time of operation.
   • Location and altitude.
   • Purpose of the flight.
3. Await approval before flying.

Keep records of the approval for future reference. Reference: UK Air Navigation Order (ANO) 2016, Article 94A.

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7. Can I fly over military airspace or restricted areas? No, you cannot fly over military airspace or restricted areas without explicit authorization. These areas are marked as Prohibited Areas or Danger Areas on aeronautical charts.

• Prohibited Areas: No drone flights allowed.
• Danger Areas: Require prior coordination and permission.

Use the Drone Assist app to identify these areas before planning your flight. Reference: CAP 722: Unmanned Aircraft System Operations in UK Airspace – Guidance.

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8. What if I need to fly near an airport for a commercial operation? For commercial operations near airports, you must:

• Obtain permission from the airport operator.
• Hold a Specific Category Operational Authorization from the CAA.

Ensure you have completed a risk assessment and submitted your Operations Manual to the CAA for approval. Reference: UK Regulation (EU) 2019/947, Annex II; CAP 722.

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For Professional Operators

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9. What are the requirements for flying in controlled airspace? Flying in controlled airspace requires:

• A Specific Category Operational Authorization from the CAA.
• Coordination with Air Traffic Control (ATC) for real-time communication.
• Compliance with the conditions outlined in your Operations Manual.

Controlled airspace is heavily regulated due to high volumes of manned aircraft. Always plan your operation carefully and ensure safety protocols are followed. Reference: CAP 722H: Specific Category Guidance.

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10. Can I fly Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) near airports? BVLOS operations near airports are highly regulated and typically require:

• A BVLOS Operational Authorization from the CAA.
• Advanced Electronic Conspicuity (EC) systems to ensure visibility to other airspace users.
• Coordination with ATC and compliance with airspace restrictions.

BVLOS flights must demonstrate a high level of safety and reliability to be approved. Reference: CAP 2557: BVLOS Factsheet; CAP 722H.

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11. What penalties apply for flying near airports without permission? Penalties for unauthorized drone flights near airports include:

• Fines of up to £2,500 for violating airspace rules.
• Criminal prosecution for endangering aircraft safety.
• Potential suspension or revocation of your drone authorization.

Always ensure you have proper permissions before flying near airports. Reference: UK Air Navigation Order (ANO) 2016, Article 94A.

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For All Pilots

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12. What safety measures should I follow when flying near airspace boundaries? To ensure safe drone operations near airspace boundaries:

• Use a drone equipped with Electronic Conspicuity (EC) technology for visibility.
• Maintain situational awareness using the Drone Assist app.
• Avoid flying at altitudes above 120 meters unless authorized.
• Conduct a pre-flight risk assessment.

Safety is critical to avoid conflicts with manned aircraft. Reference: CAP 722; CAP 3139.

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13. Can I fly over a heliport or hospital landing zone? No, heliports and hospital landing zones are considered restricted airspace. You must obtain permission from the operator before flying in these areas.

• Check the Drone Assist app to identify heliport locations.
• Plan your flight to avoid these zones unless authorized.

Reference: UK Regulation (EU) 2019/947, Annex II.

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14. What is the role of Electronic Conspicuity (EC) near airports? Electronic Conspicuity (EC) devices help drones broadcast their position to other airspace users, including manned aircraft.

• EC is critical for BVLOS operations and flights near airports.
• It enhances situational awareness and reduces collision risks.

Consider equipping your drone with EC technology for safer operations. Reference: CAP 3139: Electronic Conspicuity Consolidated Study Report.

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15. How can I avoid violating airspace rules accidentally? To avoid airspace violations:

• Use the Drone Assist app to plan your flights.
• Familiarize yourself with FRZs, controlled airspace, and Prohibited Areas.
• Maintain visual line of sight unless authorized for BVLOS.
• Follow all CAA guidelines and permissions.

Regularly review airspace regulations to stay compliant. Reference: CAP 722; UK Air Navigation Order (ANO) 2016.

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Safety Disclaimer

This FAQ is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Always verify regulations with the official Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and consult local authorities for specific flight permissions. Regulations may change—stay updated with the latest guidance.

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For more information, visit 120mAGL.com or consult the CAA’s official resources. Fly safely and responsibly!