What is UAS Categories 1–4 (over-people)?
The FAA defines four categories of small unmanned aircraft for over-people operations under § 107.39. Each category has different weight, kinetic-energy, and operational constraints.
Category 1: Aircraft with takeoff weight of 0.55 lb (250 g) or less, no exposed rotating parts that would lacerate human skin. Most permissive — over-people operations allowed without restriction.
Category 2: Aircraft that won't cause injury equivalent to 11 ft-lb of kinetic energy on impact. Manufacturer must declare and provide documentation. No exposed rotating parts. Allowed over uninvolved people.
Category 3: Aircraft that won't cause injury equivalent to 25 ft-lb. Same documentation requirements. Limited over-people operations: not over open-air assemblies, only over restricted-access sites or a defined transit period.
Category 4: Aircraft with FAA airworthiness certificates under § 21.190 or similar — typically large or specialized drones. Operations per certificate.
What this means for pilots
Most consumer drones are Category 1 (sub-250g) or Category 2 (Mavic-class with manufacturer declaration). Verify your specific aircraft + firmware + accessory configuration meets the category before flying over uninvolved people. Adding heavy props or accessories can push a Category 2 drone into a non-categorized state.
FAQ
How do I know my drone's category?
Check the manufacturer's compliance documentation — DJI publishes a Category 1/2 declaration page. Configurations matter (battery, props, payload).
Can I declare my own drone Category 2?
No. The manufacturer must declare and provide compliance documentation. Self-declaration isn't valid.
What if my drone isn't categorized?
You can't operate over uninvolved people without a § 107.39 waiver. The drone must be in a category for routine over-people flight.
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.