FAR 103.9 — Hazardous Operations
FAR 103.9 prohibits operating an ultralight vehicle or dropping objects from one in any way that creates a hazard to people or property.
FAR 103.9 sets two simple but important safety rules for ultralight vehicle operations:
- You cannot operate an ultralight in any manner that creates a hazard to other persons or property.
- You cannot drop objects from an ultralight if doing so would create a hazard to other persons or property.
In plain terms, this is the FAA's catch-all safety rule for ultralights. Even though Part 103 is famously light on requirements (no pilot certificate, no aircraft certification, no medical), the FAA still holds ultralight operators accountable for basic airmanship and judgment. Buzzing crowds, low passes over houses, reckless maneuvers near other aircraft, or jettisoning items mid-flight that could strike someone are all prohibited.
Operationally, this means you're responsible for evaluating every flight — route, altitude, terrain, people, and anything you carry — to ensure your operation never endangers anyone on the ground or in the air. Violations can lead to FAA enforcement action even without any other rule being broken.