Balloon Launches

All Unmanned Free Balloon launches must have prior approval from the Vice President of Research. This requirement applies regardless of whether the UFB is exempt from the FAA regulations. Complete the application found on this webpage and email it to the UAS coordinator at ored-uas@uidaho.edu .

Unmanned Free Balloons must comply with FAA regulations in 14 CFR 101, unless they are exempt. An unmanned free balloon is exempt from the FAA regulations if any of the below apply:

• 4lb rule: The UFB carries a payload package weighing four pounds or less and that has a weight-to-size ratio of three ounces or less per square inch on its smallest surface.
  • This ratio is calculated by dividing the package’s total weight in ounces by the area in square inches of its smallest surface.
• 6lb rule: The UFB carries a payload package that weighs six pounds or less.
• 12lb rule: The UFB carries a payload of two or more packages that weigh 12 pounds or less; or
• 50lb rule: The UFB uses a rope or device to suspend the payload that requires 50 pounds or less of force to detach the payload from the balloon.

Questions? Contact the UAS Coordinator at ored-uas@uidaho.edu or 208-885-2142.