Drones are a game-changer for industries like construction and inspections. But flying one near an airport? That’s a whole different story. The rules are strict, the stakes are high, and there’s no room for mistakes. If you’re planning to do it, you’ll need to be prepared.
Why Is Airport Airspace So Tricky?
Airports have a lot going on. Planes are constantly taking off, landing, and circling, and keeping drones out of their way is a top priority. To manage this, the airspace around airports is tightly regulated.
Depending on how close you are to the airport, you could be in Class B, C, D, or E airspace. Each comes with its own rules, but the main idea is simple: you can’t just fly whenever you want. In fact, flying in these zones without permission can land you in serious trouble—not just fines but safety risks too.
What You Need to Do Before Flying
The first step is figuring out if the spot you want to fly in is within restricted airspace. Apps like the FAA’s Aloft or their UAS Facility Maps can help with this. They’ll show you where you can fly and where you need approval.
If you’re flying commercially, the LAANC system can get you fast-track approval in many areas. But not always. For certain locations—especially near major airports or spots with a lot of air traffic—you’ll need to plan further ahead.
Sometimes, approvals take weeks. You’ll need to submit detailed flight plans, coordinate with the FAA and air traffic control, and outline your safety measures. It’s not as simple as just checking a box.
Flying Near George Bush Intercontinental Airport
Here’s a real example: We recently flew drones at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) for a construction project. It’s one of the busiest airports in the U.S., so we knew this wouldn’t be a walk in the park.
To make it work, we started planning weeks ahead. Every detail of our flights—routes, altitudes, timing—had to be approved. On the day of the shoot, we worked closely with air traffic control to make sure our flights didn’t interfere with airport operations.
It wasn’t easy, but the effort paid off. We got the shots the client needed while keeping everything safe and compliant.
Why You Should Work with Experienced Operators
Flying a drone near an airport isn’t something you can “figure out as you go.” There’s too much at stake. The last thing you want is to mess up and face legal trouble or, worse, endanger people.
That’s why hiring a team that knows what they’re doing is so important. A good operator doesn’t just know how to fly—they know how to navigate the rules, handle approvals, and plan flights that won’t cause problems.
Quick Tips
If you’re thinking about flying near an airport, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Check the Airspace: Use FAA tools to know exactly where you stand.
- Start Planning Early: Don’t wait until the last minute. Approvals can take time.
- Hire Experts: Let the pros handle the tough stuff so you can focus on your project.