Are RC Planes Legal? The 2026 Guide to Flying Safely

• Planes under 0.55 lbs (250g): No registration is required; they are legal to fly.
• Planes over 0.55 lbs (250g): Must be registered with the FAA. The registration costs $5 and is valid for three years.
• Planes weighing 55 lbs or more: Require additional documentation and registration.

This guide will look into the legality of RC planes, concentrating on federal regulations, register requirements, and flying safely.

If you not sure about the required equipment list or what a complete aircraft model should include

you can take a look at this article:  Getting Started with RC Airplanes: Your Essential Gear Guide!

The "250 Gram" Rule: Do You Need to Register?

The most important number in the RC hobby is 250 grams (0.55 lbs). This is the weight threshold set by the FAA that determines if you need to register your plane.

• Under 250g (0.55 lbs): If your ready-to-fly aircraft weighs less than 250 grams, you do not need to register it for recreational flight. This is why many beginner planes and "park flyers" are designed to be ultra-lightweight. It allows you to grab your plane and go fly without paperwork.

• Over 250g (0.55 lbs): If your RC plane weighs more than 0.55 lbs (which includes most RC jets, larger warbirds, and hobby-grade models), you must register with the FAA.

How to Register Your RC Plane

Registration is simple, inexpensive, and valid for three years.

1. Visit the official FAA DroneZone website.

2. Select "Recreational Flyer."

3. Pay the $5 registration fee.

4. You will receive an FAA registration number. You must mark this number on the outside of your aircraft so it is clearly visible.

The TRUST Test (It’s Easier Than You Think)

Regardless of how much your plane weighs, all recreational flyers in the United States must pass The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST).

Don't panic—this isn't a difficult exam. It is a free, online educational course that ensures you understand basic safety rules.

• It takes about 15-30 minutes.

• It is completely free.

• You cannot "fail" (you can re-take questions until you get them right).

Pro Tip: Once you pass, save a digital copy of your certificate on your phone. You may be asked to show it by law enforcement or park rangers.

Remote ID: What You Need to Know for 2026

As of late 2023/2024, the FAA fully enforced Remote ID rules. Think of Remote ID as a "digital license plate" for your RC plane. It broadcasts your drone's location and control station information.

• If your plane is over 250g: You generally need a Remote ID module installed, or the plane must have Standard Remote ID built-in.

• FRIA Zones: The only exception is if you are flying within a federally recognized identification area (FRIA), usually managed by community-based organizations like the AMA (Academy of Model Aeronautics). In these specific zones, you do not need Remote ID equipment.

Where You Can (and Can't) Fly Your RC Plane

Just because your plane is registered and legal doesn't mean you can fly it anywhere you want. To avoid getting fined and to keep the skies safe for everyone, you need to follow these basic "Rules of the Sky."

✅ The Green Light: Where to Fly

Follow these three rules to stay safe and legal:

• Keep it in sight: You must be able to see your plane with your own eyes at all times. If you can't see it, bring it back.

• Stay under 400 feet: Always fly below 400 feet. This keeps your plane away from real aircraft carrying people.

• Stick to "Class G" airspace: This sounds technical, but it just means "uncontrolled" airspace. It is where most hobby flying happens because there aren't many other planes around.

❌ The Red Light: Where Not to Fly

There are specific "No-Fly Zones" you must avoid:

• Airports: Never fly within 5 miles of an airport unless you have special permission ahead of time.

• National Parks: Leave the drone or plane at home when visiting National Parks; flying there is usually against the law.

• Military & Government sites: Never fly near military bases, power plants, or government buildings.

• Emergencies: Never fly near wildfires or disaster areas. If you see a real helicopter or airplane nearby, land your model immediately.

📱 There’s an App for That

You don't have to guess. Download the AutoPylot app or the FAA's B4UFLY app.

These free apps use your phone's GPS to tell you instantly if you are in a safe, legal spot to fly.

Why Local Laws Matter

While the FAA controls the airspace, local governments control the ground. Even if the airspace is clear, a local city ordinance might ban the takeoff and landing of RC aircraft in specific public parks or school grounds.

Action Step: Before heading out to a new park, check the local city website or look for "No RC Aircraft" signs at the park entrance.

Conclusion: Fly Safe, Have Fun

RC Jet planes are completely legal, provided you follow the rules. These regulations exist to prevent accidents with full-size airplanes and to ensure the safety of people on the ground.

Summary Checklist:

1. Is your plane over 250g? Register it.

2. Have you taken the TRUST test?

3. Are you flying in a legal area (under 400ft, away from airports)?

Ready to start flying? Check out our range of [Beginner Friendly RC Planes] or step up to our [High-Performance Warbirds] today!