Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), sometimes referred to as drones, have gained tremendous popularity in recent years. Whether flying for fun or for business, drone operators have a responsibility to understand and abide by the rules established by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Visit the FAA’s UAS website to learn what rules and regulations apply to you.

There are two options to fly your drone legally. Each option has different requirements depending on how you want to fly. 

Fly under the Special Rule for Model Aircraft (Section 336)  Fly under the FAA’s Small UAS Rule (Part 107)
  • Fly for hobby or recreation ONLY. 
  • Register your model aircraft. 
  • Follow community-based safety guidelines and fly within the programming of a nationwide community-based organization. 
  • Fly a model aircraft under 55 lbs., unless certified by a community-based organization.
  • Fly within visual line-of-sight.
  • Never fly near other aircraft.
  • Notify the airport and air traffic control tower prior to flying within 5 miles of an airport.
  • Never fly near emergency response efforts.
  • Do not fly over Lambeau Field. 
  • Fly for recreational OR commercial use.
  • Register your drone.
  • Get a Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA.
  • Fly a drone under 55 lbs.
  • Fly within visual-line-of-sight.*
  • Don’t fly near other aircraft or over people.*
  • Don’t fly in controlled airspace near airports without FAA permission.*
  • Fly only during daylight or civil twilight, and fly either at or below 400 feet.* 

*These rules are subject to waiver. 

For more information, see:
Fly under the Special Rule for Model Aircraft
For more information, see:
Fly under the Small UAS Rule 

As the above chart shows, drones can be flown recreationally within 5 miles of an airport under certain conditions, but only with prior notification to the airport and air traffic control.

To notify Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB), you will need to file a flight plan, by emailing your contact information, date and time of flight, location of flight, and height in AGL to [email protected]. To notify Air Traffic Control (ATC), simply call 920-431-5751 ext. 4 and leave a message. 

Filing your flight plan is easy, free and ensures that you stay in compliance with Federal notification requirements. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at 920-498-4800, or by email at [email protected]. Have Fun!