Dropping Objects

FAR 91.15 — Dropping Objects

FAR 91.15 prohibits dropping objects from a civil aircraft in flight that create a hazard. Learn what it requires and how DPEs test it on checkrides.

In Plain English

FAR 91.15 governs when and how objects can be dropped from a civil aircraft in flight. The rule is short but important for any pilot who might carry external loads, scatter items (like ashes), or operate where things could fall or be jettisoned.

The regulation has two parts:

The pilot in command (PIC) may not allow any object to be dropped from the aircraft in flight if doing so creates a hazard to persons or property.
Dropping objects is not prohibited if reasonable precautions are taken to avoid injury or damage.

In other words, dropping things from an aircraft is legal — provided the PIC plans the drop so it won't hurt anyone or damage property below. Choosing a remote area, considering wind drift, picking an appropriate altitude, and verifying the area is clear are all examples of the kind of reasonable precautions a PIC is expected to take.

Operationally, this matters because the PIC carries sole responsibility for the decision. If something is released and causes harm, the FAA will look at whether the precautions taken were reasonable under the circumstances.

Regulation Text

14 CFR § 91.15

§ 91.15 Dropping objects. No pilot in command of a civil aircraft may allow any object to be dropped from that aircraft in flight that creates a hazard to persons or property. However, this section does not prohibit the dropping of any object if reasonable precautions are taken to avoid injury or damage to persons or property.

Oral Exam Questions a DPE Might Ask

Q1Are you ever allowed to drop something out of the airplane in flight?

Yes. Under FAR 91.15, dropping an object is permitted as long as reasonable precautions are taken to avoid injury or damage to persons or property.

Q2Who is responsible for ensuring a dropped object doesn't create a hazard?

FAR 91.15 places that responsibility squarely on the pilot in command, who may not allow any object to be dropped that creates a hazard to persons or property.

Q3What kinds of precautions would satisfy FAR 91.15 before releasing an object in flight?

FAR 91.15 doesn't list specifics, but reasonable precautions include selecting a remote area clear of people and property, accounting for wind drift, and choosing an appropriate altitude so no injury or damage results.

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Related Sections in Part 91

§ 91.1

Part 91 Applicability