Can a sUAS be operated from a plane if the plane is flying more than 400 feet above ground level?

Can a sUAS be operated from a plane if the plane is flying more than 400 feet above ground level?

• A. Only with a special waiver
• B. No
• C. Only if the plane is below 1000 AGL
• D. Yes

Answer: (D)

The situation hinges on how the 400-foot AGL limit is applied and what approvals are in place for operations from a manned aircraft. The 400 ft ceiling is a general limit for small UAS flights, but it doesn’t automatically forbid flying from a plane that is already above that altitude if the operation is authorized under the applicable rules. If the aircraft is cruising higher than 400 feet and the operator has the proper authorization (waiver or other approved exemption) and all airspace requirements are met, conducting the sUAS operation can be allowed. The key is having the right approvals and ensuring safe operation within the rules (LOS, airspace, coordination with air traffic if required).

The situation hinges on how the 400-foot AGL limit is applied and what approvals are in place for operations from a manned aircraft. The 400 ft ceiling is a general limit for small UAS flights, but it doesn’t automatically forbid flying from a plane that is already above that altitude if the operation is authorized under the applicable rules. If the aircraft is cruising higher than 400 feet and the operator has the proper authorization (waiver or other approved exemption) and all airspace requirements are met, conducting the sUAS operation can be allowed. The key is having the right approvals and ensuring safe operation within the rules (LOS, airspace, coordination with air traffic if required).