Which altitude ceiling is frequently cited for drones and RC airplanes that often causes regulatory confusion with Part 101 rockets?
Answer
400-foot
A common source of confusion in the civilian rocketry community involves the frequently cited 400-foot altitude limit. This specific ceiling is generally imposed upon remotely operated, non-free-flight vehicles such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones, typically governed under regulations like Part 107 or Section 44809. This limit does not automatically apply to traditional model rockets operating under Part 101. The classification only shifts if the rocket incorporates a remotely operated control system (RC), which causes the FAA to interpret the vehicle as a Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS), thereby subjecting it to the lower altitude restrictions.
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