Can You Fly Your Drone Near Hot Air Balloons?

In this video, we answer the question of whether you can fly your drone near hot air balloons. To provide some extra insight, Ken talks with Heather Watkins, owner and chief pilot of Confetti Balloons. Heather discusses her perspective on drones flying near balloons and we also talk about FAA regulations so you can be prepared on whether or not you can capture aerial footage of hot air balloons.
🎬 Jump to Section
0:00 Introduction
1:02 Interview with Heather - Owner of Confetti Balloons
1:13 Introduction to Heather
1:24 Heather's Take on Flying Drones Near Hot Air Balloons
3:08 Delivery Drones and Hot Air Balloons
3:53 FAA Rules and Regulations
4:44 Recap
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[@fredwerza3478]

Back around 2015 and 2016, I owned a DJI Phantom 4 and I flew around hot air balloons at a few festivals ---- I was a good pilot so I wasn't worried about anything bad happening

[@monio982]

My husband is a Hot Air Balloon pilot, and I am a commercial drone pilot, we both agree with this message. FPV operators MUST have a VO when operatorating around Hot Air Balloons. I mentioned that because we saw an FPV drone operator flying when several balloons launched one morning, and he did NOT have a VO. That's dangerous and careless on the rPICs behalf.

[@uavcoach]

Totally agree!

[@MrRaymond1021]

I saw this beautiful looking air balloon in the Pennsylvania area last year, and I wanted to fly my drone around it, but then decided not to because I wasn't sure if the balloon pilot would be okay with that. So, I just watched it go by.
Thanks for sharing.

[@uavcoach]

Smart decision and glad you enjoyed the video! Blue skies and safe flying!

[@patking4928]

Great info! Thanks

[@uavcoach]

Glad it was helpful! Blue skies and safe flying!

[@willcountydrone2022]

Great Video

[@uavcoach]

Glad you enjoyed it! Blue skies and safe flying!

[@pqiwjds8822]

I agree with her, only skilled done pilots should be involved. The risk is too hight for all involved.