What is the maximum altitude a drone can fly above the ground in uncontrolled airspace without specific FAA authorization?

• A. 400 ft
• B. 1200 ft
• C. 200 ft
• D. 800 ft

Answer: (A)

In an unrestricted airspace environment, the safe ceiling for a drone without special FAA authorization is 400 feet above the ground. This limit helps keep drone flights well clear of most manned aircraft that operate at higher altitudes and makes it easier to maintain visual contact with the drone. If you need to fly higher than 400 feet, you’d have to obtain authorization to operate in controlled airspace (through the proper FAA channels). The other numbers either exceed the allowed maximum or are simply below it—400 feet is the highest altitude you can fly without additional authorization, while 200 feet is within the limit but not the maximum, and 800 or 1200 feet would require clearance.