Drone Permissions

Flying a drone or any unmanned aerial system (UAS) within 5 miles of any airport is dangerous —and illegal— without prior permission from the airport authority and air traffic control. Before you fly near the Peoria International Airport or Mt. Hawley Airport, first call (309) 697-8272, ext. 100 during weekdays until 4:30 p.m. After hours, call (309) 697-8272, ext. 110.

Permission must always be given to fly within 5 miles of an airport, but there are also different rules for operating drones and other unmanned aircraft based on why you want to fly. See the tables below for a summary. If you still have questions or concerns, you may contact the FAA’s UAS Integration Office via uashelp@faa.gov or by calling 844-FLY-MY-UA.

Fly for Fun

Pilot Requirements

No Pilot Requirements

Aircraft Requirements

Unless exclusively operated in compliance with Section 336 of Public law 112-95 (Special Rule for Model Aircraft), the aircraft must be registered if over 0.55 lbs.

Location Requirements

5 miles from airports without prior notification to airport and air traffic control

Operating Rules

• Must ALWAYS yield right of way to manned aircraft
• Must keep the aircraft in sight (visual line-of-sight)
• UAS must be under 55 lbs
• Must follow community-based safety guidelines
• Must notify airport and air traffic control tower before flying within 5 miles of an airport

Example Applications

Educational or recreational flying only

Legal or Regulatory Basis

• Public law 112-95, Section 336 – Special Rule for Model Aircraft
• FAA Interpretation of the Special Rule for Model Aircraft

Fly for Work

Pilot Requirements

• Must have Remote Pilot Airman Certificate
• Must be 16 years old
• Must pass TSA vetting

Aircraft Requirements

• Must be less than 55 lbs
• Must be registered if over 0.55 lbs (online)
• Must undergo pre-flight check to ensure UAS is in condition for safe operation

Location Requirements

Class G airspace*

Operating Rules

• Keep the aircraft in sight (visual line-of-sight)*
• Must fly under 400 feet*
• Must fly during the day*
• Must fly at or below 100 mph*
• Must yield right of way to manned aircraft
• Must NOT fly over people*
• Must NOT fly from a moving vehicle*

Example Applications

• Flying for commercial use (e.g. providing aerial surveying or photography services)
• Flying incidental to a business (e.g. doing roof inspections or real estate photography)

Legal or Regulatory Basis

Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulation (14 CFR) Part 107

*These rules are subject to waiver. (Source: FAA Website)