“The Federal Aviation Administration has launched an investigation of a near collision off the Hollywood coast.” –CBS Miami

Not exactly sure what would happen if a drone got caught in the rotors of a full sized helicopter but we almost just found out. This footage taken off the coast of Hollywood, Florida (between Fort Lauderdale and Miami). The FAA has a 400ft heigh limit on drones, with some noted exception, and the drone apprears to be the same height as the Westin Diplomat hotel which stands at 440ft tall.

Moral of the story: As a drone pilot be super fucking careful of your altitude ceiling or simple a flight could end tragically.

RELATED: Ski Federation Bans Drones After One Nearly Killed a Ski Racer

What are the Rules for Recreational Flyers?

The Exception for Limited Recreational Operations of Unmanned Aircraft (USC 44809) is the law that describes how, when, and where you can fly drones for recreational purposes. Following these rules helps keep people, your drone and our airspace safe:

  1. Fly only for recreational purposes (personal enjoyment).
  2. Follow the safety guidelines of an FAA-recognized Community Based Organization (CBO).
    For more information on how to become an FAA-recognized CBO, read Advisory Circular 91-57C.
  3. Keep your drone within the visual line of sight or use a visual observer who is co-located (physically next to) and in direct communication with you.
  4. Give way to and do not interfere with other aircraft.
  5. Fly at or below FAA-authorized altitudes in controlled airspace (Class B, C, D, and surface Class E designated for an airport) only with prior FAA authorization by using LAANC or DroneZone.
  6. Fly at or below 400 feet in Class G (uncontrolled) airspace.
    Note: Anyone flying a drone in the U.S. National Airspace System (NAS) is responsible for flying within the FAA guidelines and regulations. That means it is up to you as a drone pilot to know the rules: Where Can I Fly? 
  7. Take The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) and carry proof of test passage when flying.
  8. Have a current FAA registration, mark (PDF) your drones on the outside with the registration number, and carry proof of registration with you when flying.
    Note: Beginning September 16, 2023, if your drone requires an FAA registration number it will also be required to broadcast Remote ID information (unless flown within a FRIA). For more information on drone registration, visit How to Register Your Drone.
  9. Do not operate your drone in a manner that endangers the safety of the national airspace system.