If personnel see a drone flying within the confines of Beale or within the restricted flight areas outside of the installation, please notify the 9th Security Forces Squadron immediately.

Per direction of the U.S. Secretary of Defense, with the help and concurrence of the FAA, the small Unmanned Aircraft System/drone policy prohibits the use of all personally/privately owned small UAS anywhere on the Base. This prohibition includes but is not limited to “back yard toys”, radio-controlled model aircraft, rockets, as well as the popular copter-style aircraft. Updates from the SECDEF and the FAA have prompted the complete ban on and around military installations to ensure safety of those on the ground and in the air, as well as complying with base for protection security requirements. This includes all military housing areas, regardless of proximity to the flight line. 

Additionally, even if not within the confines of the installation, the FAA has imposed drone flight restrictions within approximately 5 miles of the airfields associated with the installation. 

Refer to FAA Part 107 UAS operations, the UAS Facility Maps showing the maximum altitudes around airports/air bases where the FAA may authorize part 107 UAS operations without additional safety analysis, as well the Hobbyist Rules for more information. 

Know the Rules BEFORE You Fly!

WARNING: Operation of unofficial drones discovered within the base perimeter may be subject to seizure by local or base authorities, as well as the operator being subject to legal action and potential penalties. The policy's goal is to protect military aircraft and personnel from the additional risks posed by airborne devices on active airfields, as well as reduce the security risks of drone cameras in secure areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I have to register the model aircraft or drone I own?

​     A: Yes, if it weighs more than 250 grams (approximately 9 ounces or 0.55 pounds). It does not matter if you are flying recreationally or for the commercial/civil purposes. Additionally, you must comply with the operations and safety requirements spelled out in FAA Part 107 and Advisory Circular 91-57B.

Q: Do any hobby shops provide UAS flight training for free?

​     A: Yes. Many hobby shops offer flight instructions with the sale of a multi-rotor. In addition, many of the Academy of Model Aeronautics 2400 clubs also offer free flight training. To find a club near you, visit www.modelaircraft.org.

Quick References

  • B4UFLY: A free FAA-sponsored app for smartphones that assists in determining if it is safe to operate a drone based on current location. This is a must-have app for all operators, especially near high use airspace.
  • LAANC: A web-based system for drone operators to get near-real-time approval to operate in some areas of controlled airspace.
  • Register My Drone: All drones, even hobbyist drone, if they weigh more than 250 grams (0.55 lbs.) must be registered with the FAA before they can be legally operated. Additionally the registration number must be visibly displayed on the drone.
  • FAA Drone Zone: A robust website that is a launching pad for many topics of interest for sUAS operators.

Important Links

FAA Map Viewer 

LAANC

Hobbyist Rules

Hobby Rule History

B4UFLY

Register My Drone

FAA Drone Zone

 

If personnel see a drone flying within the confines of Beale or within the restricted flight areas outside of the installation notify the 9th Security Forces immediately.