AhaBulbStuff Everyone Should Know
AhaBulb: Stuff Everyone Should Know · ahabulb.com/drone-cloud-clearance

Under Part 107, how far must a drone stay from clouds?

500 feet below and 2,000 feet horizontally.

Start playing free

  1. 500 feet below, 2,000 feet horizontally ✔
  2. 1,000 feet below, 2,000 feet horizontally
  3. 500 feet below, 1,000 feet horizontally

Why: Part 107 requires at least 500 feet below a cloud and 2,000 feet horizontally from it. Manned aircraft can pop out of clouds, so the gap gives everyone time to see and avoid.

Huh, didn't know that: Cloud clearance is part of section 107.51, which the FAA can waive.

The dad joke
Why do drones keep their distance from clouds? They heard clouds can be a little shady.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: 500 feet below, 2,000 feet horizontally. Part 107 requires at least 500 feet below a cloud and 2,000 feet horizontally from it. Manned aircraft can pop out of clouds, so the gap gives everyone time to see and avoid.

  1. 14 CFR 107.51 Operating limitations (eCFR) www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/section-107.51
    (1) 500 feet below the cloud; and (2) 2,000 feet horizontally from the cloud.
    Checked 2026-10-07.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

DronesWhat minimum flight visibility does Part 107 require, as seen from the control station?DronesA real estate agent flies a drone to photograph a listing. Which rules apply?DronesAccording to the FAA, what decides whether a drone flight counts as recreational?

That's stuff everyone should know.