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Flying on the Fourth of July: 3 Things to Know

Watching fireworks shows from the air can be done safely and legally, provided you take some precautions.

[FLYING file photo]
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Pilots planning to view fireworks from the air must first check for Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) and maintain an altitude of at least 2,000 feet AGL to safely clear commercial displays.
  • Awareness is key during takeoff and landing, as personal fireworks near airports can pose hazards; flight following and ADS-B are recommended for traffic awareness.
  • While offering a unique perspective, viewing fireworks from an aircraft has drawbacks, such as potentially losing sight of displays if too high and missing the auditory and olfactory elements of the experience.
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There comes a time in every pilot’s life when they want to view Fourth of July fireworks from the air.

It can be done safely and legally, provided you take some precautions.

Meg Godlewski

Meg Godlewski has been an aviation journalist for more than 24 years and a CFI for more than 20 years. If she is not flying or teaching aviation, she is writing about it. Meg is a founding member of the Pilot Proficiency Center at EAA AirVenture and excels at the application of simulation technology to flatten the learning curve. Follow Meg on Twitter @2Lewski.

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