EVERETT—Paine Field Airport is reminding Snohomish County residents that it is illegal to fly a drone within five miles of the airfield without first obtaining permission from both the Federal Aviation Administration and the airport.
With the rapid advancement of technology, the availability of small unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, has significantly increased, posing a notable challenge to airports. UAS flights are prohibited in controlled airspace unless prior approval is granted by the FAA Air Traffic Control.
This restriction applies to civic, commercial, and privately owned drones. Operators who violate these airspace restrictions may face enforcement actions, including potential civil penalties and criminal charges.
For information about proper locations and rules for drone operation, visit the Federal Aviation Administration UAS website at https://www.faa.gov/uas/getting_started
Drone enthusiasts can download the free B4UFLY app at https://www.faa.gov/uas/getting_started/b4ufly for questions about the specifics of flying a UAS near airports. This app shows a user’s current location and informs them of notifications they need to make to local airfields.
The FAA also offers these safety tips for drone operators:
- Register your drone.
- Fly your drone at or below 400 feet.
- Keep your drone within your line of sight.
- Be aware of FAA Airspace Restrictions.
- Respect privacy.
- Never fly near other aircraft, especially near airports.
- Never fly over groups of people, public events, or stadiums full of people.
- Never fly near emergencies such as fires or emergency recovery efforts.
- Never fly under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
SOURCE: Paine Field Airport
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
