What is the minimum height above the surface for operations in uncontrolled airspace below 1,000 feet AGL?

What is the minimum height above the surface for operations in uncontrolled airspace below 1,000 feet AGL?

• A. 250 feet
• B. 100 feet
• C. 200 feet
• D. 500 feet

Answer: (A)

In uncontrolled airspace below 1,000 feet AGL, you want a safe vertical buffer between your drone and potential hazards. Flying at least 250 feet above the surface provides a practical margin above ground-level obstacles like trees, houses, and structures, while still keeping you well clear of the lower-altitude operations that can occur near takeoffs and landings. This height helps minimize the risk of conflicting with any low-flying manned aircraft or other operations that might occur in that band, and it aligns with typical safety guidelines used in drone training. The lower numbers would reduce your clearance from obstacles and air traffic, while a higher number would unnecessarily restrict many common drone tasks.

In uncontrolled airspace below 1,000 feet AGL, you want a safe vertical buffer between your drone and potential hazards. Flying at least 250 feet above the surface provides a practical margin above ground-level obstacles like trees, houses, and structures, while still keeping you well clear of the lower-altitude operations that can occur near takeoffs and landings. This height helps minimize the risk of conflicting with any low-flying manned aircraft or other operations that might occur in that band, and it aligns with typical safety guidelines used in drone training. The lower numbers would reduce your clearance from obstacles and air traffic, while a higher number would unnecessarily restrict many common drone tasks.