Drones: Cook Children's Medical Center is a No-Fly Zone

Dangers increase as drone sales do as well.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) predicts the 1.9 million drones sold in 2016 may grow to 4.3 million by 2020. But with the surge in popularity there seems to be a lack of education about where and when drones are ok to be flown.

According to the FAA, hobby and recreational drone users should follow these guidelines:

Fly below 400 feet and remain clear of surrounding obstacles
Keep the aircraft within visual line of sight at all times
Remain well clear of and do not interfere with manned aircraft operations
Don't fly within 5 miles of an airport (including hospital helicopter pads)
Don't fly near people or stadiums
Don't fly an aircraft that weighs more than 55 lbs
Don't be careless or reckless with your unmanned aircraft – you could be fined for endangering people or other aircraft

Please also take note that drones are not allowed to be flown around Cook Children's Medical Center because we have an active helipad used to transport patients. Our Teddy Bear Transport Helicopter was delayed from picking up a patient in 2015 becuase of a drone.

If you plan to buy or already own a drone, Cook Children's asks you know the recommendations before you fly. You can find them here.