What is FAA Section 333 exemption?
Long story short, the Section 333 exemption was what drone pilots used to operate drones commercially from 2014 to 2016. It’s a process that no longer exists and is no longer required for the commercial operation of drones.
Table of Contents
What drones are exempt from FAA registration?

How to Register Your Drone
- All drones must be registered, except those that weigh 0.55 pounds or less (less than 250 grams) and are flown exclusively under the Exception for Recreational Flyers.
- Drones registered under part 107 may be flown for recreational purposes as well as under part 107.
What is the special rule for model aircraft Section 336?
Section 336 of the Act, titled “Special Rule for Model Aircraft,” defined “model aircraft” and specifically prohibited FAA from promulgating a rule or regulation regarding model aircraft that were operated under certain circumstances.
What is the FAA’s Part 107 rule?
Drone pilots operating under Part 107 may fly at night, over people and moving vehicles without a waiver as long as they meet the requirements defined in the rule. Airspace authorizations are still required for night operations in controlled airspace under 400 feet.

How can I fly my drone over 55 pounds?
To fly a drone over 55 lbs., you can either apply for an exemption via Section 44807 or apply for a Special Airworthiness Certificate. Part 107 is, by far, the most important piece of legislation when it comes to commercial drone flight in the U.S. However, it is still not all-encompassing.
Under what section would you need to apply for an exemption if you wanted to operate a UAS heavier than 55 pounds?
FAA Section 333 Exemptions – Drones Over 55 lbs – Hire a Drone Law Attorney – Fly Under FAA Part 107.
Does the FAA know when I fly my drone?
Otherwise, you risk flying illegally. The FAA and law enforcement will be able to see your broadcast identification number that they can cross-reference with your registration number, speed, and altitude.
What is the exception for recreational flyers?
The exception for recreational flyers only applies to flights that are purely for fun or personal enjoyment.
Are model aircraft considered aircraft?
Historically, the FAA has considered model aircraft to be aircraft that fall within the statutory and regulatory definitions of an aircraft, as they are contrivances or devices that are “invented, used, or designed to navigate, or fly in, the air.” See 49 USC 40102 and 14 CFR 1.1.
What are the five main responsibilities of aviation instructors?
Aviation Instructor Responsibilities:
- The job of an aviation instructor is to teach. Previous chapters have discussed how people learn, the teaching process, and teaching methods.
- Helping Students Learn:
- Providing Adequate Instruction:
- Standards of Performance:
- Emphasizing the Positive:
- Minimizing Student Frustrations:
What happens if I fly my drone over 400 feet?
If you fly over 400 feet, you risk getting caught and being fined or prosecuted. The cruising speed of manned aircraft is approximately 500 feet, so you risk collision by going any higher than this limit. You could also lose contact with the drone at high altitudes.
Do I have to be able to see my drone at all times?
You must only fly one drone at a time. You must keep your drone within visual line-of-sight. This means always being able to see the drone with your own eyes (rather than through a device, screen or goggles). You must not fly over or above people or in a populous area.
What happens if you fly a drone over 400 ft?
How can I legally fly a drone above 400 feet?
Drone pilots are allowed to fly 400 feet above the top of the tallest structure within a 50 foot radius of their operation. So to fly above 400 feet, a pilot would need to be standing near a reasonably tall structure, such as a building or cell tower.
What if my drone weighs more than 55 pounds?
If a drone weighing more than 55 lbs starts a flight indoors and then exits the building, does this violate part 107? Yes, while outdoors the UAS is subject to the FAA’s authority and having exceeded the 55 lb restriction would be a violation.
Will the FAA know if I fly my drone over 400 feet?
For the most part, compliance with the 400-foot rule is a voluntary matter. There is no existing mechanism for the FAA to monitor if there are drone pilots, licensed or otherwise, who will fly above this altitude limit.
How can you get caught flying a drone too high?
Can you get caught flying a drone too high? There is no current way for law enforcement officers or the FAA to monitor if a drone has been above the altitude limit. They must also identify the pilot, which can be relatively tricky to do.
What is considered recreational drone use?
Recreational or hobby UAS or drone use is flying for enjoyment and not for work, business purposes, or for compensation or hire.
Do drones count as aircraft?
Is a drone considered an aircraft? Yes. According to the FAA a drone is an unmanned aircraft. Of note anytime you fly your drone in the National Airspace (NAS) you are considered by the FAA to be a pilot.
Do you have to register model airplanes?
Owners using the model aircraft for hobby or recreation will only have to register once and may use the same identification number for all of their model UAS. The registration is valid for three years.
How much do flight instructors make?
Income for a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) generally ranges from $30,000 to $60,000 per year ($15 to $30 per hour), but this depends greatly on experience, location, weather, hours flown, and demand. The greatest factor in compensation is how many hours you are able to fly.
What makes a good CFI?
A good CFI understands that each individual learns differently and works to communicate in the best way possible. Sometimes, communication does not just involve spoken words. It can also mean visual learning or hands on projects.
Do drones show up on radar?
Yes, radar can detect all types of drones regardless of whether it uses RF communication, GPS preprogramming or Wifi/Cellular communication. The only limit to radar detection is the size of the drone.
Can my Neighbour fly a drone over my garden?
If you fly your drone low over someone’s land without their permission, you could be liable in trespass or nuisance, even if you do not personally go onto the land (although this is generally a civil rather than a criminal matter).
Can I fly my drone out of line of sight?
For years, there’s been a cardinal rule for flying civilian drones: Keep them within your line of sight. Not just because it’s a good idea — it’s also the law.