Unmanned Aircraft Systems

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Flying a sUAS at Princeton

Small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS), also referred to as drones, model airplanes or remote control aircraft, are controlled aircraft without an onboard pilot. In higher education, the uses for sUAS are growing rapidly as technology advances and changes in federal regulations make possible a wide array of applications in research, education, and operations.

Princeton University has instituted procedures and policies for the use of sUAS, and follows the latest FAA guidance in setting rules for sUAS operation. Policies are designed to ensure that use of sUAS by students and researchers on campus is conducted in a safe, responsible manner. Use of sUAS that is intrusive of personal privacy, or endangers the security of anyone in the Princeton community, will not be tolerated.

To learn more about how sUAS technology is being used at Princeton, check out our blog.

Whether you are flying a drone for recreation, education or business purposes, the FAA now requires certification through one of several options. Learn More »
A graduate student tests flight controls of a DJI quadcopter on Pardee Field. Approval must be sought before any sUAS can be flown on the Princeton University campus. Go to form »
The view from a sUAS during a test flight to verify camera is working properly prior to a field survey. Drones are increasingly being used in student and faculty research, and for thesis projects.
Tristan LaCombe ensures Princeton Radio Control Club's equipment and operations adhere to the University's sUAS Policy. View the policy »

Blog: Updates From the Field

Princeton Students Build Apps Centered on Addressing Privacy Implications of Drone Use

April 21, 2017

Oluseyi O. Fasoranti

As drones become more pervasive on college campuses and other locations for a diverse range of applications, discussions on their impact on the security and privacy within communities are beginning to take place. One potential concern, for example, are that some drones can be used to take video footage of private spaces where it is expected…

Video: Demonstrating Principles of Flight With sUAS

April 12, 2017

Jim Sturdivant

A recent morning in Jadwin Gym saw students in Jason Puchalla's Physics 108 class learning to operate remote control birds and mini quadcopters, part of a hands-on lesson in the complexities of animal flight.

The test flights demonstrated the limitations of Bernoulli's Principle in predicting the ways creatures get—and stay—airborne.

News and Events

Amazon Prime Air launches drone delivery service just before Christmas

Jan. 4, 2023

Lockeford, Calif. and College Station, Texas saw the first Amazon package deliveries via drone on Christmas Eve 2022.

Drone-Mounted Sensors Can Help Fight Wildfires

Aug. 30, 2022

Drones Can detect arcing in rugged areas that are tough for helicopters and airplanes to reach, as well as identify maintenance needs before problems emerge.

View All News

Recently Added

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January 12, 2017

Preferred Locations Map

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Drone Flights For Research, Recreation Move to Forrestal

March 16, 2022

For emergencies, call Public Safety at 911. Report any crash, injury or property damage to Environmental Health & Safety at 609-258-5294.