Can I fly my drone today?
Six checks before you drive to the spot.
- Wind and gusts at flying heightLook at gusts, not the average, and at the height you'll fly, not the 33 ft the forecast gives. Keep gusts under about 70% of your drone's limit. Limits by drone · Wind at 400 ft
- Rain and fogMost consumer drones aren't water resistant, so skip light rain too. Fog and low cloud also break line of sight, which the rules require in the US and the UK.
- Kp indexKp measures geomagnetic activity. At Kp 5 or more, a geomagnetic storm, GPS and compass readings can drift and the drone may not hold its position.
- DaylightCheck how much light is left, not just the sunset time. After dark the UK requires a green flashing light, and you'll want lights that show where the drone is and which way it faces. UK rules
- AirspaceAirports, stadium events and some parks are off limits or need permission first. In the US, check B4UFLY. In the UK, check the flight restriction zones around airports. US rules · UK rules
- ColdBatteries drain faster in the cold. Keep them warm until takeoff and land with more charge left than usual.
The quick answer
If gusts at height are well under your drone's limit, it's dry, Kp is under 5, there's light left and the spot is clear of restrictions, you're good to fly. Any one of them over the line, and it's a day to wait.
Updated October 29, 2026
