Drone Operation on Cornell Premises

The term Drone is commonly used to refer to any Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) or Unmanned Aerial System (UAS).

• Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) is defined as a “powered, aerial vehicle that does not carry a human operator, uses aerodynamic forces to provide vehicle lift, can fly autonomously or be piloted remotely, can be expendable or recoverable, and can carry a lethal or nonlethal payload”.
• Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) “is an unmanned aircraft and the equipment necessary for the safe and efficient operation of that aircraft”.

Approval Request for Drone Operation

To ensure the safe, responsible, and legal operation of UAVs, it is essential that you thoroughly review the university’s UAV Guidelines before submitting a request for approval to operate any drone on Cornell premises. Please note that the contracting department, not the vendor or contractor, is responsible for submitting the request at least 14 days prior to the intended drone flight for any university-related or recreational purposes.

Please be advised that the RMI will NOT process any Drone Operation Requests if any of the Required Documentation is missing.

To submit a request, the department must:

1. 1. Review the Cornell University UAV Guidelines: Ensure compliance with university regulations.
   2. Consult FAA Information: Familiarize yourself with FAA guidelines on Unmanned Aircraft Systems.
   3. Submit a UAV Flight Request Form: Obtain approval from Risk Management and Insurance by emailing the completed form to risk_mgmt@cornell.edu.
   4. Insurance Requirement: UAV operators must have General Liability insurance. A certificate of insurance proving this coverage must be submitted to the Office of Risk Management and Insurance.

Drones For Educational Users

All drone operations performed in connection with Cornell activities must be conducted in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

Part 107 (14 CFR part 107) is the primary law for flying drones that is less than 55 pounds. A drone can be flown under part 107 rules for many reasons, including business, recreation, or education.

Faculty, staff, and students operating UAVs for educational purposes must follow all Cornell University UAV Guidelines as well as the FAA guidelines for Educational Users.