How close can you fly a drone to an airport? Key Rules Explained

In Australia, flying a drone near an airport is subject to strict CASA regulations designed to keep our airspace safe. Drone operators often underestimate how far a controlled airport’s airspace actually extends, with many residential suburbs included within restricted zones. So, how close can you fly a drone to an airport legally? And what are the consequences if you don’t follow the rules?

Controlled Airports: CASA Rules and Common Misconceptions

A controlled airport has an air traffic control tower and is typically associated with high volumes of manned aircraft activity. These locations have strict drone regulations. Some well-known controlled airports in Australia include:

• Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD)
• Melbourne Tullamarine (MEL)
• Brisbane Airport (BNE)
• Perth Airport (PER)
• Adelaide Airport (ADL)
• Canberra Airport (CBR)
• Gold Coast Airport (OOL)

CASA rules for drones weighing over 250g include:

• No flying within 5.5 km (3 NM) of a controlled airport
• Strict no-fly zones within the approach and departure paths that extend up to 7 km from the runway
• Between 7 km and 8.5 km from the runway’s approach and departure centreline, drone flights are restricted to a maximum height of 90 m (300 ft)

These distances are measured from the centreline of the runway, not just the physical boundary of the airport. This often surprises drone pilots, especially in suburban areas like Port Botany, Essendon Fields, or Bankstown which may fall within these zones.

Flying Drones Under 250g Near Airports

If your drone weighs 250g or less, CASA provides some limited allowances:

• You may fly within 5.5 km of a controlled airport
• Maximum altitude is limited to 45 m (150 ft)
• You must not fly over or into the approach and departure paths
• You must avoid flying within the actual airport boundary
• You must not create a hazard to other aircraft

Non-Controlled Airports and How They Differ

Australia has many non-controlled airports, which do not have air traffic control towers. Examples include Ballina Byron Gateway, Mildura, Warnervale and Albury airports. At these sites, the rules are less restrictive, but still serious:

• You can fly within 5.5 km and within approach/departure paths
• However, if a manned aircraft is taking off, landing, or flying nearby, you must immediately land your drone
• You must not take off when aware of approaching aircraft

These safety distances are still measured from the runway centreline. Always remain vigilant, use safety apps, and watch for incoming aircraft.

Helicopter Landing Sites: Know the Rules

A helicopter landing site (HLS) is a designated location for helicopter take-offs and landings. Drone operations near HLSs are also regulated:

• You may fly within 1.4 km (0.75 NM) of a helicopter landing site
• But if a helicopter is arriving or departing, you must not launch and must land immediately if already airborne
• The distance is measured from the centre of the HLS

Measuring Distances and Altitudes

Distance regulations are not just arbitrary – they’re specifically calculated from the centreline of the runway or HLS. Altitude is measured from the point directly beneath your drone (not sea level). This precision matters when flying near airports and is critical for compliance.

How to Get Permission to Fly Drone Near Airport Areas

If you’re conducting commercial work and need to operate in restricted zones, you may apply for approval through CASA. The process usually requires:

• A detailed flight plan and risk assessment
• Identification of airspace class and proximity to airports
• Documentation showing you hold a RePL or operate under a ReOC

At Flying Glass, we hold a CASA Operator’s Certificate (OC) and a wide range of exemptions and permissions that allow us to fly where many others cannot. If you’re a film crew or property developer needing aerials near an airport, contact us – we may be able to legally carry out the shoot for you.

Flying Drone Near Airport: Legal Risks and Penalties

Ignoring CASA’s regulations can lead to serious consequences. The penalty for flying drone near airport zones without authorisation can include:

• Fines of over AUD $10,000
• Drone seizure
• Suspension of your licence
• Prosecution if your flight interferes with manned aircraft

It’s simply not worth the risk. Always check the rules before you fly.

Can You Take a Drone Through Airport Security?

Yes. Drones can be taken through airport security, though you should:

• Pack drone batteries in carry-on, not checked luggage
• Follow airline restrictions on battery watt-hours
• Expect security staff to swab or inspect your drone

Can Airports See Your Drone?

Increasingly, yes. Many airports use radar and visual observers, and CASA encourages airports to report drone sightings. Additionally, systems like DJI Aeroscope can identify and track drones mid-flight.

Can Drones Land at Airports?

No. Unless specifically authorised for special operations (such as emergency response or CASA-approved testing), drones may not take off from or land at airports. Doing so without authorisation is a major offence.

Can You Fly a Drone Around an Airport?

In most cases, no. Whether you’re asking about controlled airspace or surrounding suburbs, the answer is generally no without permission. Always check with apps like OpenSky or contact CASA directly. The safest way to fly in these areas is to hire an experienced operator like Flying Glass.

Learn the Rules with Our Drone Training Courses

If you want to understand the rules and legally fly drones commercially, consider our RePL training courses. We cover airspace rules, approach and departure paths, and how to obtain permissions to fly in sensitive areas. Our courses are perfect for photographers, filmmakers, engineers, and hobbyists looking to fly professionally.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to drones and airports, ignorance is no excuse. If you’ve ever wondered how close can you fly a drone to an airport, remember that controlled airports have airspace extending well beyond the fence line, especially within the approach and departure path. Even non-controlled airports and helicopter sites have strict guidelines you must follow. To stay safe and compliant:

• Use CASA-verified apps like OK2Fly or OpenSky
• Understand controlled vs non-controlled airspace
• Never fly near airports without proper approval
• Consider drone training to become a certified operator
• Contact Flying Glass if you need a drone operator with existing permissions

If you’re in doubt, don’t risk it. Reach out to Flying Glass and let us handle it safely and legally.