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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 flying to view fireworks must check for FAA Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) over display areas and maintain a safe altitude of at least 2,000 feet AGL to clear most fireworks.
  • Exercise caution during takeoff and landing at airports due to potential personal fireworks on the ground, and use flight following or ADS-B for increased situational awareness of other aerial traffic.
  • While offering a unique visual perspective, viewing fireworks from the air means missing the auditory and olfactory elements that are a significant part of the experience for many.
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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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