Learning Objectives

At the end of this lesson, you will be able to:

• Identify which flights require a Remote Pilot Certificate and which do not.
• List the nine qualifying criteria for the Exception for Limited Recreational Operations of Small Unmanned Aircraft

Notes

Here are nine key bullet points for the recreational drone use exception under Section 49 USC section 44809:

1. Strictly for Hobby or Recreation: Flights must be for recreational purposes only—no business, services, or compensation, even if no money changes hands.
2. Visual Line of Sight: The drone must be flown within the operator’s visual line of sight or a designated visual observer in communication with the operator.
3. Yield to Manned Aircraft: Recreational drones must always give way to manned aircraft, ensuring they don’t interfere with them.
4. Uncontrolled Airspace Restrictions: In uncontrolled airspace, the maximum altitude is 400 feet.
5. Controlled Airspace Restrictions: In controlled airspace, authorization from the FAA is required, or the flight must take place at a pre-approved site.
6. Aeronautical Knowledge Test: Recreational flyers must pass an online knowledge test (the TRUST test) to ensure they understand the basics of safe flying.
7. Aircraft Registration: Drones used for recreational purposes must be registered with the FAA and properly marked.
8. Safety Guidelines: Flights must follow a community-based set of safety guidelines, such as those set by the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA), a national model airplane club.
9. Community-Based Organization (CBO): Drones must operate within the programming of a nationwide CBO, such as AMA, which helps establish safety rules and protects hobbyists' rights.

The Exception for Limited Recreational Operation of Small Unmanned Aircraft is defined in 49 USC Section 44809.

Any operator not complying with all five criteria above are subject to FAR Part 107.

Resources and Links

• Academy of Model Aeronautics
• AMA Safety Code