What determines airspace?


What determines airspace? This structure incorporates different classifications of airspace. These are each determined by the complexity or density of aircraft traffic, the nature of operations conducted, the degree of safety required, and what is in the best public and national interest.


Does the US own airspace?

The United States Government has exclusive sovereignty of airspace of the United States. A citizen of the United States has a public right of transit through the navigable airspace.


Does the FAA control airspace below 400 feet?

In general, you can only fly your drone in uncontrolled airspace below 400 feet above the ground ( AGL ). Commercial drone operators are required to get permission from the FAA before flying in controlled airspace.


Who owns the airspace over the US?

Federal law provides that the United States government has exclusive sovereignty of airspace of the United States; the FAA makes the plans and policy for the use of the navigable airspace; and any citizen has a public right of transit through the navigable airspace. 49 U.S. Code § 40103.


Can Part 107 pilots fly over people?

Drone pilots operating under Part 107 may fly at night, over people and moving vehicles without a waiver as long as they meet the requirements defined in the rule. Airspace authorizations are still required for night operations in controlled airspace under 400 feet.


What is the most restricted airspace in the US?

It houses the president of the United States and his administration along with highly protected national intelligence. In fact, ever since the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the entire DC area is considered National Defense Airspace (NDA) and is the most restricted airspace in the country.


Will the FAA know if I fly my drone over 400 feet?

For the most part, compliance with the 400-foot rule is a voluntary matter. There is no existing mechanism for the FAA to monitor if there are drone pilots, licensed or otherwise, who will fly above this altitude limit.


How do pilots know where restricted airspace is?

For temporary restricted areas and temporary MOAs, pilots should review the Domestic Notices found on the Federal NOTAM System (FNS) NOTAM Search website under External Links or the Air Traffic Plans and Publications website, the FAA SUA website, and/or contact the appropriate overlying ATC facility to determine the ...