New Regulations: What Drone Pilots Need to Know

Overview of 2024 Regulatory Changes

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has implemented several important updates to Part 107 and recreational drone operation rules. Heres what every FLYQ pilot needs to know.

Remote ID Requirement (Effective Now)

All drones weighing over 0.55 lbs (250g) must now broadcast Remote ID when operating outdoors. FLYQ Air 2, Pro 3, and Air 3 models have built-in Remote ID modules that activate automatically—no action required from pilots.

Updated Altitude Restrictions

Maximum flight altitude remains 400 feet AGL (above ground level) in uncontrolled airspace. New: Altitude waivers now require detailed justification and are reviewed within 90 days instead of 120.

Night Flight Provisions

Part 107 pilots can now fly at night without special waivers, provided the drone has anti-collision lighting visible for 3 statute miles. FLYQ strobes meet this requirement. Recreational pilots still require Part 107 certification for night operations.

Operations Over People

Category 2 operations (over people, not in sustained flight over open-air assemblies) are now permitted for drones under 55 lbs with propeller guards. FLYQ drones meet Category 2 requirements when equipped with our official propeller guard kits.

Visual Observer Requirements

Operations requiring visual observers (flying beyond visual line of sight, complex missions) now mandate that observers complete a free online training course through the FAA website.

Enhanced Airspace Authorization

LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) expansion means instant authorization is now available in over 750 controlled airspace zones. The FLYQ app integrates LAANC for one-tap authorization requests.

Increased Penalties

Violations now carry steeper fines: $1,100-$27,500 for recreational pilots, up to $32,666 for Part 107 operators. Repeat violations can result in equipment seizure and criminal charges.

How FLYQ Helps You Stay Compliant

Our app includes: built-in Remote ID broadcasting, real-time airspace warnings, automatic LAANC integration, pre-flight compliance checklists, and regulatory updates. We make compliance simple.

Resources

Full regulation text: faa.gov/uas
Part 107 study guide: faa.gov/training_testing/testing/test_prep
LAANC information: faa.gov/uas/programs_partnerships/data_exchange