Unmanned Aircraft Systems (Drones)

IMPORTANT: The FAA has implemented new rules from the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018. Updated direction and guidance may be found at www.faa.gov/uas. Please refer to this site regularly as further rules and requirements are implemented by the FAA. 

The FAA is evaluating the impacts of the Reauthorization Act of 2018 and how implementation will proceed. The Reauthorization Act has not yet been implemented at this time, please continue to follow all current policies and guidance with respect to the recreational use of drones. Updated direction and guidance will be provided at www.FAA.gov as they implement this new legislation.

 

To complete and submit a UAS Notification Form, please click here.

Know before you fly!

The proper operation of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, is critical to the safety of commercial and general aviation at Tampa International Airport and Hillsborough County’s general aviation airports.

If you are a recreational user flying a drone within a five-mile radius of the uncontrolled general aviation airports operated by the Authority, Peter O. Knight, Plant City or Tampa Executive Airports, you MUST notify the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority and the FAA. 

Recreational and hobby operators need to adhere to the following safety guidelines as well as Hillsborough County Aviation Authority’s (HCAA) ordinances, effective Sept. 1, 2017.

  • Do not operate a drone within the RESTRICTED zones found on the interactive map below. 
  • Comply with the altitudes restrictions found on the interactive map.
  • Always fly below 400 feet, unless otherwise restricted.
  • Always fly your drone within visual line of sight.
  • Do not fly near airports, stadiums, or groups of people.
  • Prior to operating a drone, seek clearance from the FAA's LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability system) and please also complete the courtesy notification form for the Airport Authority found below, if operating within 5 miles of Tampa International Airport, Peter O'Knight, Tampa Executive, or Plant City airports. 
  • Never fly a drone near other aircraft.
  • Never fly your drone near emergency response efforts, such as fires.
  • Never fly your drone under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
  • Be aware of FAA airspace requirements (www.faa.gov/uas/recreational_fliers/) and HCAA zoning ordinances.
  • If you see a safety issue involving drones, contact local law enforcement immediately.

The interactive map depicts the controlled airspace (Class B) around Tampa International Airport.  The FAA has announced that all recreational and commercial drone pilots are able to obtain authorization to fly in Tampa International Airport’s controlled airspace by utilizing the Low Altitude Authorization and Notification System (LAANC). The interactive map also represents the restricted areas where no recreational drone operations are authorized, as well as the 100’, 200’, and 300’ foot altitude restrictions around Peter O. Knight, Plant City, and Tampa Executive airports.  Enter the location that you will be operating your drone to see if you are within a zone requiring Airport and FAA notification, a restricted zone, an altitude-restricted zone, or an area covered by LAANC.  Go to www.FAA.gov/UAS to learn more about the latest UAS rules.

To complete and submit a UAS Notification Form, please click here. 

Resources:
faa.gov/uas/recreational_fliers
KnowBeforeYouFly.org
B4UFLY Smartphone App
Small UAS - Part 107