What is Section 107.23 (hazardous operation)?
14 CFR § 107.23 prohibits operating a small unmanned aircraft in a careless or reckless manner that endangers the life or property of others, or allowing an object to be dropped that creates undue hazard.
§ 107.23 is the catch-all 'reckless operation' rule. Two parts:
• 'No person may operate a small unmanned aircraft system in a careless or reckless manner so as to endanger the life or property of another.' • 'No person may allow an object to be dropped from a small unmanned aircraft in a manner that creates an undue hazard to persons or property.'
The rule is intentionally broad. It captures behavior that doesn't violate a specific operating rule but is obviously unsafe — buzzing crowds at low altitude, racing the drone over occupied vehicles, dropping anything from altitude over people, etc.
The FAA cites § 107.23 in many enforcement cases when no other specific rule fits. Civil penalties typically range $5,000–30,000 per violation. § 107.23 also frequently accompanies certificate suspension or revocation in serious cases.
What this means for pilots
Operate conservatively. The bar isn't 'I didn't violate a specific rule' — it's 'a reasonable person would consider this safe.' Buzzing crowds, low passes over vehicles, and dropping payloads near people all violate § 107.23 regardless of any other compliance.
FAQ
Can I drop things from my drone?
Yes if it's done safely. The rule prohibits creating 'undue hazard' — a calm-day delivery onto an unoccupied lawn is fine. Dropping over crowds or vehicles is a § 107.23 violation.
What's a 'reckless' flight?
FAA judgment call. Examples: low-altitude pass over a crowded beach, flight over a busy highway, rapid descent toward a structure. The standard is what a reasonable pilot would consider safe.
Does § 107.23 apply to recreational pilots?
Yes — the equivalent rule applies under 49 USC 44809 and CBO safety guidelines.
Related terms
FAA regulations change. Verify current rules at faa.gov/uas before relying on this article for flight planning. Altoa is not the FAA.