How far must a UAS be from non-participant persons during flight?

The correct answer is based on the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations governing the operation of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in the national airspace. The guidelines specify that a remote pilot must ensure that their UAS maintains a distance of at least 500 feet horizontally from non-participant persons during its operations. This distance is established to minimize risk and enhance safety for individuals who are not directly involved in the flight operation.

The requirement for maintaining a 500-foot separation helps to prevent potential accidents and reduces the likelihood of injury in case the UAS experiences a malfunction or crash. The regulation aims to protect the general public and non-participating individuals by creating a safety buffer around the drone, which is especially important given the risks associated with flying unmanned vehicles.

In scenarios where UAS operations might be conducted near crowds or populated areas, additional measures may be required, such as obtaining waivers or adhering to specific local regulations. By adhering to the 500-foot buffer, remote pilots contribute to the overall safety of the aviation environment.