Drones

If you own or are considering purchasing a drone (also known as a Small Unmanned Aircraft System, or sUAS), the FAA website provides everything you need to know to safely operate your aircraft. Additionally, if you plan to fly a drone near the airport, you must first contact Air Traffic Control for permission.

• All drones between .55 lbs and 55 lbs must be registered online with the FAA before flying them outdoors
• Drones over 55 lbs must go through the standard aircraft registration process, just like an airplane
• Any U.S. citizen over the age of thirteen can register a drone, and the rules for operating your sUAS depend on whether you’re flying for recreational or commercial purposes
• If you plan to fly your drone within five (5) nautical miles of Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport, you must first contact Air Traffic Control (ATC) at 757-875-5080 to obtain permission to fly