In light of new technological trends, flying a drone has become a favorite pastime of many. Seeing the world from higher altitudes was virtually impossible for most people a few decades ago, but now, not so.
With drones filming and taking pictures above ground is not only possible now but easy. However, flying a drone in certain places is illegal even though owning one isn’t.
Places where you are not allowed to fly drones
Just as there are places where drone flights are allowed, there are also places where they are restricted. So drone users are advised to check with their local flight authorities before they launch their drones into the air.
With that being said, the places where drone flights are prohibited are called “no drone areas.” So, any area where you find this sign is an indication that drone flights are not allowed in that airspace. Generally, drones are not allowed over
- Stadiums
- Raceways
- Prisons
- Government institutions
- Military bases
- Airports
- Certain natural landmarks/national parks
In many of the above-listed places, drones are prohibited for diverse reasons. In the case of military bases and prisons, flying a drone over such places may be termed a national security risk that will attract stiff sanctions.
For places where government bureaucracy operates, the sensitive nature of the activities in such areas requires a certain degree of secrecy and confidentiality, hence drones’ restrictions.
As for airports, drones are prohibited because they pose threats to planes and helicopters. The rotor blades of these crafts, especially helicopters, have a dynamic suction system that may suck a nearby drone into the rotor blades, thereby creating an accidental hazard.
How to know if you are allowed to fly a drone or not
If you want to know whether drones flights are permitted in an area, look out for No drone signs and other types of restrictions. The FAA uses the “NO DRONE” sign to point out areas where drones are not allowed. Also, do watch out for signs like
- Restricted Airspace
- Temporary Flight Restriction Signs
Temporary Flight Restriction Signs include the time and date as well as the type of flights not permitted within the specific area. These signs are also uploaded on the website of the aviation authorities, so make sure you do your research first to be sure.
Further Resources
Consult https://www.casa.gov.au/knowyourdrone/drone-rules if you need further information and comprehensive guidance on operation of your drone.
