FAQ: Flying Near Airports (Controlled Airspace)

Flying near airports requires strict adherence to regulations to ensure safety and compliance with European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) rules. Below, you'll find answers to frequently asked questions about operating drones in controlled airspace.

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1. Can I fly my drone near an airport?

Direct Answer: Flying near an airport is heavily restricted. You must obtain explicit authorization from the air traffic service (ATS) before operating in controlled airspace.

Regulatory Context: Controlled airspace is designated to ensure safe operations of manned aircraft. Drones cannot operate in such areas without permission due to the high risk of collisions and interference with aircraft.

Safety Reminder: Always check your drone's location against local airspace maps to avoid unauthorized operations near airports.

Official Reference: Regulations governing this are outlined in Reg 2019/947 Art. 4, 15.

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2. What is controlled airspace?

Direct Answer: Controlled airspace is a defined area around airports and other facilities where air traffic is managed by air traffic control (ATC) to ensure safe operation of aircraft.

Regulatory Context: Controlled airspace typically includes Class C, D, or E airspace, which is often marked on official aeronautical charts. Drone pilots must ensure they do not enter these areas without explicit authorization.

Safety Reminder: Always consult airspace maps and ensure you are familiar with the classification of airspace in your operating area.

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3. How do I get permission to fly near an airport?

Direct Answer: To fly near an airport, you must submit a request for authorization to the air traffic service (ATS) responsible for that controlled airspace.

Steps to Obtain Authorization:

1. Identify the controlled airspace using official airspace maps or apps.
2. Contact the relevant ATS authority for the area.
3. Submit your request, including flight details, purpose, and safety measures.

Official Reference: Authorization requirements are outlined in Reg 2019/947 Art. 15.

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4. What happens if I fly my drone near an airport without permission?

Direct Answer: Unauthorized drone flights near airports can lead to severe consequences, including fines, confiscation of your drone, or legal action.

Regulatory Context: Flying near an airport without authorization is considered a breach of aviation safety regulations and may endanger lives.

Safety Reminder: Avoid flying in proximity to airports without proper permissions to prevent accidents and legal repercussions.

Official Reference: Penalties for violations are mentioned in Reg 2019/947 Art. 15.

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5. How close can I fly to an airport legally?

Direct Answer: The minimum distance varies depending on the airport and local regulations, but drones are generally prohibited within several kilometers of airport boundaries unless authorized.

Regulatory Context: EASA regulations require drone pilots to respect controlled airspace boundaries, which may extend far beyond the visible airport area.

Safety Reminder: Always consult aeronautical charts or a reliable drone-specific app to determine legal operating boundaries near airports.

Official Reference: Minimum distance requirements are addressed in Reg 2019/947 Art. 4.

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6. Can I fly my drone over an airport?

Direct Answer: No, flying a drone over an airport is strictly prohibited unless explicitly authorized by the ATS authority.

Regulatory Context: Airports are critical infrastructure, and operations over them are considered high-risk and generally banned for drones.

Safety Reminder: Ensure your drone's geofencing system prevents accidental entry into restricted zones.

Official Reference: Restrictions are outlined in Reg 2019/947 Art. 4.

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7. What tools can I use to check if I’m in controlled airspace?

Direct Answer: Use official aeronautical charts, drone-specific apps like Drone Assist or AirMap, or your drone’s geofencing system to check airspace classifications.

Practical Example: Before flying, input your flight area coordinates into a drone app to verify whether you’re operating in controlled airspace.

Safety Reminder: Always use reliable, updated tools to confirm your location relative to controlled airspace boundaries.

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8. Is there a maximum altitude I can fly near an airport?

Direct Answer: The maximum altitude for drone flights is 120m (394ft) above ground level (AGL) unless otherwise authorized by ATS.

Regulatory Context: This altitude restriction helps prevent collisions with manned aircraft, which typically operate at higher altitudes.

Safety Reminder: Even with authorization, maintain situational awareness and adhere strictly to altitude limits.

Official Reference: Altitude limits are defined in Reg 2019/947 Art. 4.

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9. Can I fly a drone commercially near an airport?

Direct Answer: Yes, but you must obtain specific authorization from ATS and ensure your operation complies with all EASA regulations for commercial drone flights.

Requirements for Commercial Operations:

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  Authorization from ATS.
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  Compliance with operational risk assessments.
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  Proper certifications for the pilot and the drone.

Safety Reminder: Always conduct a thorough risk assessment before planning commercial operations near an airport.

Official Reference: Commercial operations are regulated under Reg 2019/947 Art. 15.

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10. Do geofencing systems prevent flights near airports?

Direct Answer: Yes, many drones are equipped with geofencing technology that restricts flights near airports.

Practical Example: If you attempt to fly near an airport, your drone may automatically prevent takeoff or issue a warning.

Safety Reminder: Ensure your drone’s geofencing system is activated and updated regularly to prevent accidental violations.

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11. What if I need to fly near an airport for emergency purposes?

Direct Answer: Emergency flights may be permitted under exceptional circumstances, but you must coordinate with ATS immediately and follow their directives.

Regulatory Context: Emergency operations require clear communication and adherence to ATS instructions to ensure safety.

Safety Reminder: Emergency flights near airports must prioritize safety for all airspace users.

Official Reference: Emergency permissions are addressed in Reg 2019/947 Art. 15.

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12. How do I know if my drone is allowed to fly in controlled airspace?

Direct Answer: Check your drone’s operational capabilities, certifications, and ensure it complies with EASA requirements for controlled airspace operations.

Safety Reminder: Ensure your drone is equipped with the necessary safety features, such as fail-safe mechanisms and geo-awareness systems, for controlled airspace.

Official Reference: Drone requirements are outlined in Reg 2019/947 Art. 4.

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13. What is the penalty for violating controlled airspace regulations?

Direct Answer: Penalties may include fines, suspension of your drone license, or other legal consequences depending on the severity of the violation.

Regulatory Context: Violating controlled airspace regulations endangers public safety and is treated as a serious offense.

Safety Reminder: Always operate responsibly and within the boundaries of the law to avoid penalties.

Official Reference: Penalty provisions are outlined in Reg 2019/947 Art. 15.

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14. Can I fly near a small airfield or heliport?

Direct Answer: Small airfields and heliports may also be classified as controlled airspace. Always verify the airspace classification and obtain necessary permissions.

Safety Reminder: Even small airfields pose risks due to potential aircraft activity; ensure full compliance with regulations.

Official Reference: Airspace classifications are outlined in Reg 2019/947 Art. 4.

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15. Where can I find more detailed information about controlled airspace regulations?

Direct Answer: Consult official EASA documentation and aeronautical charts for detailed information.

Useful Resources:

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  EASA regulations: EASA Official Website
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  Airspace maps: Drone-specific apps like Drone Assist or AirMap

Safety Reminder: Always use official sources to verify the latest regulations.

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Disclaimer: Regulations may change; always verify with official sources. This is educational content and does not constitute legal advice. Consult official EASA documentation for complete requirements.

For more guidance, explore related topics on 120mAGL.com . Stay safe and compliant!