Can I Fly a Drone Near an Airport or Helicopter Landing Site?

Can I fly a drone near an airport or helicopter landing site?

You should not assume that a flight near an airport, heliport or helicopter route is permitted. CASA’s restrictions depend on the aerodrome, the drone’s weight and the proposed location, including protected approach and departure paths. Check CASA’s current airport guidance and mapping immediately before flight.¹

Airports create a serious collision risk

A drone can be difficult for a pilot to see and may cause serious consequences if it interferes with a manned aircraft. That risk is not limited to large airports. Helicopters can operate at low altitude and may be responding to medical, police, rescue or fire emergencies.

The fact that an area is a scenic lookout, beach car park or private property does not make it suitable for a drone flight.

Controlled and non-controlled aerodromes

A controlled aerodrome generally has an air traffic control tower. CASA’s current guidance sets distinct restrictions for flights near controlled aerodromes, including rules that depend on aircraft weight and the location relative to the airport and runway approach or departure paths.¹

Other aerodromes may not have a control tower, but aircraft can still operate there. CASA’s guidance requires drone operators to remain alert to manned aircraft and to keep clear.

Why a generic distance rule is not enough

A single ‘five-kilometre rule’ is too simplistic. Current CASA requirements distinguish between drone weight, controlled-airport boundaries, runway paths and other circumstances. Use the current official map/app and guidance for the particular place and flight.

Helicopters and emergency operations

Do not fly near emergency operations. The presence of a helicopter, emergency vehicles or an unfolding incident is a clear reason to keep the drone on the ground. Emergency aviation can change rapidly, and a drone flight may place crews and the public at risk.²

Before flying near any aviation activity

• Identify nearby airports, aerodromes and helicopter landing sites.
• Check the drone’s weight and CASA’s applicable rules.
• Review CASA’s current mapping and notices.
• Look and listen for manned aircraft.
• Do not fly in restricted areas or if conditions are uncertain.
• Land promptly if circumstances change.

Related drone-law resources

Read CASA rules for recreational drone flying , beaches, parks and crowds and FPV, night and BVLOS flights . For a Gold Coast-focused starting point, see Can I fly a drone on the Gold Coast? and the Legal Matters episode .

References