In built-up area or near individuals, what is recommended?

• A. Ignore distance and fly over people to save time.
• B. Fly directly over crowds to shorten travel time.
• C. Plan for higher risk, maintain distance, and avoid crowded or sensitive areas.
• D. Fly at maximum altitude to avoid ground hazards.

Answer: (C)

In built-up areas or near people, the risk of injury or property damage if something goes wrong with the drone is higher, so your approach must reflect that risk. The recommended mindset is to plan for that higher risk by keeping a safe distance from people, avoiding flying over crowds, and steering clear of crowded or sensitive areas where bystanders could be affected. This directly reduces the potential harm if the drone were to malfunction, lose GPS lock, or drift off course. The other options don’t address the core safety need: flying over or directly above people creates immediate danger, and simply going to a higher altitude does not guarantee safety or compliance and can still expose bystanders to risk and legal constraints.