What operational area is prohibited for small RPA flights?

The operational area that is prohibited for small Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) flights is at or near an aerodrome. This restriction is primarily due to safety and collision avoidance considerations. Aerodromes, including airports, are areas with a high concentration of manned aircraft activity, and the risk of collision is significantly increased when RPAs operate in these airspaces. Keeping small RPAs away from aerodrome environments helps to ensure the safe operation of both unmanned and manned aircraft, thus protecting pilots, passengers, and people on the ground.

In addition to safety concerns, regulations and guidelines often specify minimum distance requirements for RPAs from aerodromes. These regulations are designed to maintain separation between the traffic of RPAs and manned aircraft, as well as to reduce the potential for interference with flight operations that could lead to dangerous situations. Familiarization with these rules is essential for RPA operators to ensure compliance and safe operational practices.