Drones were one of the most popular gifts given during the recent holiday season. As students return to campus this week, possibly with a new drone, the Â鶹ÊÓƵ Department of Public Safety offers some guidelines to ensure the flying experience is both safe and enjoyable.
Anyone who flies an unmanned aircraft system (UAS), or drone weighing more than 0.55 pounds, for recreational purposes must register the aircraft with the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) UAS registry by Feb. 19, 2016. People that fly UAS for profit must receive authorization from the FAA. People who do not register or receive authorization could face civil and criminal penalties. The registration can be done .
Public Safety has developed a on the Kent Campus that are recommended for safe drone flying. Members of the Â鶹ÊÓƵ community flying a drone for recreational use should also keep in mind the following safety guidelines from the FAA:
- Drones should be flown below 400 feet and remain clear of surrounding obstacles, such as buildings.
- Keep the aircraft within your visual line of sight at all times.
- Remain well clear of, and do not interfere with, manned aircraft operations.
- Do not fly a drone within five miles of an airport unless you notify the airport and control tower ahead of time. The Kent Campus is within the five mile radius of the Â鶹ÊÓƵ Airport, so please notify the airport manager at airport@kent.edu.
- Do not fly near people, stadiums or sporting events.
- Do not fly an aircraft that weighs more than 55 pounds.
Anyone flying a UAS who does not adhere to these guidelines, or who is observed flying the aircraft in a careless or reckless manner, could face a fine for endangering people or other aircraft. Check out for more information on flying responsibly.
