What is the repair cost that necessitates reporting an accident to the FAA?

The threshold for reporting an accident to the FAA is set at $500. This means that if the total cost to repair the damage caused by an accident is $500 or more, the incident must be reported. The regulation is in place to ensure that any significant incidents involving unmanned aircraft systems are formally documented, thus allowing the FAA to track safety trends, identify risks, and enforce regulations effectively.

Damage costs often encompass repairs to the unmanned aircraft itself, as well as damages to other property or injuries sustained by individuals. Knowing this reporting requirement is vital for safe operation and compliance with Federal Aviation Regulations. Understanding this financial threshold is crucial for operators to manage their responsibilities during incidents involving their unmanned aircraft.