Drone Pilot Practice Exam

When flying a drone near a building or structure, what is the maximum altitude limit within a 400-foot radius?

1. 300 feet AGL

2. 400 feet AGL

3. 500 feet AGL

4. 800 feet AGL

The correct answer is: 400 feet AGL

When flying a drone near a building or structure, the operational guidelines set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) state that you can fly up to a maximum altitude of 400 feet above ground level (AGL) within a 400-foot radius from the structure. This allows for compliance with safe flying practices while enabling pilots to operate in close proximity to obstacles such as buildings, ensuring they remain within the prescribed airspace limits. It is important to note that if a drone pilot is flying over a tall structure, they may exceed the 400 feet limit but only to the maximum height of that structure plus the altitude within which they are operating safely. The overall regulation emphasizes maintaining safe flying distances and altitudes to mitigate risk, especially in urban environments where buildings are present.