Hurricane Dorian Safety Alert for Drone Pilots!
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is monitoring Hurricane Dorian closely and preparing FAA facilities and equipment along the southeast coast of Florida to withstand potential damage so flights can quickly resume after the storm passes. Restoring air carrier service is critical to support disaster relief efforts.
Drone users should check NOTAMs and TFRs and avoid flying in areas where drones are prohibited.
Drone pilots must comply with FAA rules and should:
- Avoid flying in the area unless conducting an active disaster response or recovery mission.
- Be aware that the FAA might issue a TFR in the affected area. Be sure to check for active TFRs if you plan to fly.
- Remember that you cannot fly inside a TFR without FAA approval.
Drone emergency operations and response:
- During a natural disaster, do not fly your drone in or around emergency response efforts, unless you have special authorization to do so. There are low flying aircraft as part of the storm response — mostly in low visibility areas. If you are flying, emergency response operations cannot.
Don’t Be That Guy!
Be aware that significant penalties that may exceed $20,000 if drone operators interfere with emergency response operations. Flying a drone without authorization in or near the disaster area may violate federal, state, or local laws and ordinances, even if a TFR is not in place. Allow first responders to save lives and property without interference.
If you are not certified as a remote pilot or do not already hold a COA, you cannot fly.
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