SUMMARY
Operating a drone carries higher stakes than typical camera gear, with potential for substantial fines, aircraft damage, or legal trouble. Beginners must navigate FAA regulations, including drone registration for aircraft over 250 grams, the TRUST test for recreational flyers, and Remote ID requirements. It's critical to verify a drone's actual takeoff weight, as accessories can push it over the 250-gram exemption threshold. Flying in controlled or restricted airspace without authorization is particularly dangerous and heavily penalized, requiring adherence to altitude limits and always yielding to crewed aircraft.
TAKEAWAYS
Drones require FAA registration for aircraft over 250 grams, visible identification, and adherence to Remote ID rules.
The sub-250-gram exemption from registration and Remote ID can be lost with added accessories or manufacturing tolerances.
Flying in controlled or restricted airspace without authorization is dangerous and carries significant penalties.
Recreational drone pilots must pass the TRUST test and always yield to crewed aircraft.