ADOT&PF Reminds Personal Drone Operators to Follow Safety Guidelines

For Immediate Release: February 10, 2015
Contact: Linda Bustamante, 907-266-2596, Linda.Bustamante@alaska.gov

(ANCHORAGE, Alaska) – Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), or drones, are a popular topic right now. Because these devices are inexpensive and easy to operate they are becoming very common. Recreational flying does not require FAA approval, but UAS operators must follow safety guidelines. Operators who use a UAS for commercial or business use must get FAA approval.

The Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities (ADOT&PF) operates 249 airports in the state and recently there have been many questions, and some concerns, about UAS.

ADOT&PF reminds operators to fly responsibly and to keep safety in mind. Basic guidelines include:

• Don’t fly UAS above 400 feet.
• Keep your UAS within eyesight at all times.
• Users MUST contact airport or control towers before flying within five miles of an airport.

For more information visit: www.knowbeforeyoufly.org, www.faa.gov/go/uas or www.alaskadrones.org.

If you witness improper operation of a UAS please call local law enforcement or the FAA safety hotline 1-866-835-5322, option #4.

The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities oversees 249 airports, 11 ferries serving 35 communities, 5,619 miles of highway and 720 public facilities throughout the state of Alaska. The mission of the department is to Keep Alaska Moving through service and infrastructure.