flying drone at model rocket launches

[Vespidae]

This past weekend there was a 2 day model rocket event in Manchester, TN. My friend a rocket enthusiast invited me to come along. I was excited about the opportunity to capture aerial footage of some of the launches which the event organizers were gracious enough to let me do. I was told the FAA granted them a 12,000 foot height limit to launch the rockets. Some went as high as 5000ft. As we all know, we are given a 400ft limit to fly our drones. If we fly drones at an event such as this, that has the type of clearance, are there exceptions where drones can fly higher than 400ft(sans tall structure inspections)? What are your thoughts?

 

[Anthony Viscomi]

Did you get any decent shots?

 

[Vespidae]

Yes, I was able to get a few good shots. Next time I can get closer to the launches without the fear of getting shot down. lol

 

[Anthony Viscomi]

OMG...they look like freaking missiles ! Thanks for sharing.

 

[Vespidae]

You're quite welcome.

 

[Will.i.am]

I would think that if this clearance was for an area, then you may be OK to exceed 400 ft in that same area. Are these rockets considered UAVs?

 

[Vespidae]

I spoke with my rocket buddy, he pondered the thought and concluded that they are indeed UAVs.

 

[RavenTBK]

There is no 400ft "limit". There is, however, a 400ft recommendation.

If the rocket guys had a blessing from the crown for a 12k ft ceiling, obviously your max would be 1640ft.